U.S. Secretary of State Rubio Cancels Kenya Visit Amid Strained Relations

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio canceled his planned Kenya visit due to concerns over the country’s closer ties with China and rising corruption. This decision follows President Ruto’s recent trip to China, which has drawn criticism and raised tensions in U.S.-Kenya relations. Additionally, U.S. investment in Kenya is reportedly declining amid concerns about corruption.

In a surprising turn of events, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has decided to cancel his upcoming visit to Kenya, originally set for April 28. The visit was to mark Rubio’s first diplomatic mission to Africa following his appointment by President Trump. While no official reason was provided for this abrupt cancellation, it seems to stem from Kenya’s increasingly close ties with China and growing concerns surrounding corruption among its leadership.

This cancellation unfolds shortly after Kenyan President William Ruto returned from a significant state visit to China, where he engaged in discussions with high-ranking officials including President Xi Jinping. His trip aimed to improve trade and investment relations with China, which has raised eyebrows in Washington. A spokesperson for the Kenyan State House, Hussein Mohamed, emphasized that Ruto’s visit was a continuation of an established partnership with China, particularly in context of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), which positions Kenya as a pivotal partner in Africa.

Moreover, President Ruto’s trip was marked by strong critiques of the U.S. regarding its recent votes at the UN, aiming to articulate Kenya’s stance in international affairs. Tensions are compounded by Kenya’s reported links with Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces and alleged support for rebel groups in the Democratic Republic of Congo. High-ranking diplomats in Washington are expressing discontent with Ruto’s administration and its diplomatic gestures in the region.

The backdrop of this diplomatic dilemma is also tied to the Trump administration’s potential cuts, which may see the closure of several U.S. embassies and consulates, including some in Africa. Notably, this situation is affecting Kenyan prospects as U.S. companies withdraw from planned multi-billion-dollar investments due to escalated corruption concerns. These dynamics have reportedly cost Kenya significant economic opportunities, which were anticipated following Ruto’s previous visit to the White House.

Adding to the complexities, U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), which has been a significant source of funding for Kenya, is now closing up operations, suggesting that relations have entered a challenging new phase. Notably, the Kenyan government has not yet remarked on the visit’s cancellation.

Criticism surrounding Ruto’s timing with his trip to China has emerged on social media, with users suggesting he may have chosen a less favorable moment in light of U.S.-China tensions. Commentators express that his actions may jeopardize Kenya’s relationship with the United States, indicating a potential shift in loyalties and alliances.

In conclusion, Secretary of State Rubio’s cancellation of his Kenya visit underscores the delicate balance of U.S.-Kenya relations, influenced by Kenya’s growing engagement with China and internal governance issues. As Kenya navigates its foreign partnerships, the implications of such diplomatic moves could have long-term effects on its international standing and economic opportunities. The lack of an official response from Kenya adds further uncertainty to the situation, with potential repercussions on future U.S. investments in the region.

Original Source: hornobserver.com