OSINT SUMMARY
Reports from Somalia indicate that the country is seeking Russia’s help in combating Al-Shabaab militants that has destabilized the peace of the horn of Africa nation.
The Al Qaeda linked Islamist Al-Shabaab terrorist group is waging insurgency against the western-backed government with an intention of overthrowing it and imposing a strict version of Islamist Sharia law.
Reports further say that Mogadishu is also seeking Moscow’s help in strengthening it weak economy.
Somali Prime Minister Omar Abdirashid Ali Sharmarke met Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov on Tuesday where they discussed key areas in which Somalia seeks Russia support.
"Support in peacekeeping operations is one of the possible aspects of strengthening our armed forces. It is highly important for us to strengthen our law enforcement agencies to fight terrorism. Therefore, we would like to request such support from you," Sharmarke said at the meeting in Moscow. "We expect closer Somalia-Russia cooperation.”
Lavrov on his part said that Russia is ready to intervene militarily to help Somalia batlle Al-Shabaab insurgents in the volatile region.
Lavrov also commended AMISOM troops from Kenya, Uganda, Djibouti, Ethiopia and Burundi supporting government forces in battling Al-Shabaab in renewed effort of securing and stabilizing Somalia.
