FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                                             June 27, 2019

U.S. airstrike targets al-Shabaab in support of the Federal Government of Somalia

In coordination with the Federal Government of Somalia, U.S. Africa Command conducted one airstrike targeting al-Shabaab militants in the vicinity of Kunyo Barrow, Somalia, June 25, 2019.

Precision airstrikes continue to put pressure on the al-Shabaab network and degrade its efforts to intimidate and terrorize the local population. These strikes damage the militants’ financial networks and inhibit their freedom of movement in the region.

Airstrikes also provide opportunities to build time and space for the Federal Government of Somalia to continue its efforts to provide good governance and security for its people.

At this time, we assess the airstrike killed one (1) militant.

Currently, we assess no civilians were injured or killed as a result of this airstrike. Our processes and procedures allow for additional information to inform post-strike analysis.

U.S. Africa Command will continue to work with its partners to transfer the responsibility for long-term security in Somalia from AMISOM to the Federal Government of Somalia and its Member States. In support of the Federal Government of Somalia, U.S. forces will use all effective and appropriate methods to assist in the protection of the Somali people, including partnered military counterterrorism operations with the Federal Government of Somalia, AMISOM, and Somali National Army forces.