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EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW: Senator Jim Risch, Chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, has voiced strong criticisms against China, Russia, and Iran for their detrimental impact on U.S. national security interests in Africa. His remarks were made during an exclusive interview with Fox News Digital.
In this comprehensive discussion, Senator Risch, a Republican from Idaho, shed light on the Trump administration’s policies toward Africa, touching upon issues of terrorism, conflict, and the significance of trade in the region. He emphasized Africa’s growing importance to U.S. interests.
“The economic potential in Africa is substantial, and the United States needs a prominent role in trade and investment within the region,” Risch stated. He further noted that there are critical national security challenges that require proactive engagement, such as terrorism, ongoing conflicts that destabilize areas, migration issues, and trafficking.
Assessing the Threat Landscape
Senator Risch categorically labeled Russia, China, and Iran as malign actors in Africa. He accused them of military aggression, exploitative economic practices, and highlighted Iran’s efforts to secure agreements for obtaining refined yellowcake uranium, which poses a threat given its ties to nuclear development.
“The aggressive actions of China and Russia, along with regional threats from Iran, represent significant challenges to U.S. security interests in Africa,” Risch commented. He articulated that countering these threats necessitates strengthening partnerships with African nations alongside addressing the direct challenges posed by these nations.
Military Presence and Federal Commitment
He elaborated on the vital role of the U.S. military in Africa, stating that its primary mission is to protect American citizens. This commitment remains unwavering even as security threats evolve on the continent. Risch noted, “We face real security threats in Africa that demand our serious attention. One must remember that Osama bin Laden operated in Sudan, where he orchestrated terrorist attacks against the U.S. embassies and plotted the September 11 attacks.”
Regarding the rising tide of Islamist extremism, Risch expressed alarm about the proliferation of militant groups in various African regions. He has supported collaborative efforts with African nations focused on addressing and mitigating these threats effectively.
However, he also acknowledged that African nations must take a more active role in confronting these challenges rather than relying solely on U.S. support. “It is essential for regional actors to step up and shoulder more responsibility in countering extremism,” he stated.
Washington’s Military Operations in Somalia
The U.S. clearly identifies Somalia’s precarious security situation. Recent restrictions barring Somalian nationals from entering the U.S. reflect this concern. A White House proclamation declared Somalia a recognized terrorist haven, underscoring the urgency of addressing escalating threats from Al-Qaeda and Islamic State affiliates operating in that region.
U.S. military actions, coordinated through Africa Command, have intensified since President Trump’s tenure began. This month alone, the military has executed multiple airstrikes targeting the Islamic State in Somalia, illustrating a decisive shift in operational strategy.
“I have strongly advocated for a strategy that reduces dependence on a central government that has failed to deliver and instead focuses on fostering partnerships in Somalia and the wider region to achieve genuine counterterrorism success,” Risch said.
He praised Trump’s Africa policy for demonstrating a willingness to think outside conventional frameworks, particularly in how recent military actions in Somalia have been conducted with efficiency and decisiveness.
Humanitarian Crisis in Sudan
The ongoing conflict in Sudan has claimed countless lives and displaced millions since it escalated in April 2023. Risch condemned the war, emphasizing the dire humanitarian crisis it has generated. He described it as the worst global disaster, exacerbated by the interference of malign influences from nations like Russia and Iran.
“Ending the war in Sudan is imperative, and preventing any further fragmentation of the Sudanese state is crucial,” Risch asserted. He declared that the situation has become a playground for multiple malign actors who back various factions involved in the conflict.
Promoting Stability in the Democratic Republic of Congo
On the subject of political stability, Risch highlighted the Trump administration’s commitment to mediating peace efforts in the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of Congo. He stated, “The ongoing administration is diligently working on securing a peace deal between the DRC and Rwanda to halt the violence. The U.S. must balance its role against China’s influence in the region’s critical mineral deals, which cannot fully materialize until local stability is achieved.”
Senator Risch pointed to the troubling developments in South Africa, where officials from China, Russia, and Iran are engaging in discussions with local government ministers. He particularly noted the African National Congress’s invitation of representatives from organizations like Hamas, despite the economic benefits South Africa enjoys under U.S. trade agreements like the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA).
Looking Ahead: The Path Forward
As AGOA’s expiration approaches, Risch has raised ongoing national security concerns regarding South Africa’s eligibility for these benefits. “AGOA is poised to expire soon, and President Trump’s tariff policies already undermine many of its incentives. My critique of the South African government’s stance remains firm,” he noted, applauding Secretary Rubio’s decision to withhold U.S. representation from the G20 meetings in South Africa.
With South Africa expected to transition the G20 chairmanship to the U.S. in November, it is notable that Washington will not send any officials to attend the handover ceremony. Fox News Digital attempted to contact the South African government for comments but received no reply.
