U.S. Senator Ted Cruz, representing the state of Texas, has strongly advocated for the cause of Somaliland, urging the administration of President Donald Trump to take formal steps toward recognizing Somaliland.
Cruz’s remarks were made during a confirmation hearing for Devin Kennington—President Trump’s nominee for U.S. Ambassador to Somalia—held before the U.S. Senate Committee on Foreign Relations on November 10, 2026.
While questioning Kennington, Cruz asserted that Somaliland is distinct from Somalia, pointing out that the two entities differ in their political status, security situations, and systems of governance. He further argued that Somaliland merits formal recognition by the United States.
The Senator based his argument on several factors that distinguish Somaliland from Somalia, including the fact that it has been self-governing since 1991, has held various multi-party elections, and has experienced peaceful transfers of power between different leaders. He also noted Somaliland’s strategic location on the Gulf of Aden, its role in regional security, and its diplomatic relations with Taiwan and Israel.
Cruz also brought up a previous statement by President Donald Trump, in which he described Somaliland as a country entirely distinct from Somalia, and indicated that he agrees with that perspective. He asked the ambassador several times: “President Trump clearly distinguished between Somaliland and Somalia; do you agree with the President?”
For his part, Devin Kennington—responding to the senator’s questions—did not commit to supporting immediate U.S. recognition of Somaliland; however, he did acknowledge the clear distinctions between the two sides. Kennington noted that, based on the realities on the ground, the situation in Hargeisa and Somaliland differs significantly from that of the rest of Somalia.
The senator further asked the nominee about the obstacles preventing Washington from recognizing Somaliland. The nominee declined to provide specific details, stating: “I cannot answer those questions, but I can affirm that it is important for us to engage in a cooperative relationship with Somaliland.”
Kennington also indicated that, should the Senate confirm his nomination, he would work to strengthen the relationship between the United States and Somaliland and expand cooperation between the two sides.
Nevertheless, Cruz remained unsatisfied with the responses he received, questioning why the U.S. State Department—under President Trump’s policy—has distinguished between Hargeisa and Mogadishu. He made it clear that his support for Kennington’s confirmation depends on how the U.S. administration implements the President’s policy regarding Somaliland.
