Kenya is working closely with the United States and other nations in defending Ukraine and the Red Sea which has been under attack from Houthi rebels.
This was communicated by Secretary of Defence Lloyd J. Austin III on Wednesday, February 7, during a meeting with his Kenyan counterpart Aden Duale.
As communicated by the United States Pentagon, Kenya is a member of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group.
This is an alliance of over 50 countries that gives military aid to Ukraine as well as coordinating monthly meetings to assess the Ukraine-Russian conflict.
In 2023, the alliance supported and approved sending heavy offensive weaponry to Ukraine.
“Lloyd Austin also noted Kenya's participation in Operation Prosperity Guardian, an international maritime taskforce launched by the U.S. in December, in response to Houthi attacks against vessels operating in the Red Sea,” the Pentagon stated.
On January 24, Kenya was among the nations that issued a joint statement warning Houthi rebels against vessels transiting the Red Sea and surrounding waterways.
“We condemn these attacks and demand an end to them,” Kenya, US and other countries warned then.
Lloyd Austin remarked that the United States would continue working closely with Kenya over shared security goals.
"Our partnership deepens our ability to deter threats combat global terrorism and provide humanitarian assistance when needed,” he stated.
Duale in agreement stated that Kenya would support the US-led initiatives in Ukraine and the Red Sea.
"I look forward to continuing to strengthen our cooperation, which is important and fundamental—not only for addressing immediate security challenges but also [for] shaping our long-term strategic alliance for the promotion of peace and stability," Duale was quoted by Pentagon.
