Celebrations in Somaliland after Trump calls it ‘totally different country’ from Somalia

Hundreds rallied in Hargeisa, Somaliland, celebrating US President Donald Trump's statement calling the breakaway region "a totally different country" from Somalia. Participants waved US and Somaliland flags, some emblazoned with Trump's face, and expressed hope that the remarks signal the beginning of US recognition for the self-governing region.

Hundreds of people rallied in Somaliland's capital Hargeisa on Wednesday, waving US and Somaliland flags and celebrating US President Donald Trump calling the breakaway region "a totally different country" from Somalia. The self-governing region runs its own affairs and is widely seen as more stable and democratic than Somalia, though it has so far been recognized only by Israel. During a rally in Ohio on Monday, Trump said Somaliland was "a totally different country" from Somalia. Hargeisa welcomed the remarks, posting on X that they "underscore Somaliland's distinct identity and its separate political reality" and that it remained "steadfast in its pursuit of international recognition." Participants expressed hope that the statement marks the beginning of US recognition. Somaliland has its own currency, passport, and army, and enjoys a strategic position on the Gulf of Aden, but has struggled to win international recognition. Secession remains controversial, strongly opposed by the African Union and other partners who fear it could encourage breakaway movements elsewhere.