On behalf of the U.S. Mission to Somalia, I extend heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of the United States military service member killed in Somalia on
May 5. The service member died heroically supporting an operation against the al-Qaeda affiliate al-Shabaab that has terrorized the people of Somalia and East Africa for many years and threatened American interests.
This tragedy is a testament to the commitment and sacrifice of our U.S. military colleagues who work closely with their Somali and other African counterparts every day to end the destruction inflicted upon the Somali people by al-Shabaab.
The United States has a strong relationship with the government and people of Somalia and looks forward to deepening this partnership to restore peace and prosperity in the country.