U.S. Military Announces Plans To Adjust Africa Strategy

Gen. Michael Langley, head of U.S.-Africa Command, has called on fragile states to take more ownership of their security—a move analysts interpret as part of the Trump administration’s shift toward emphasizing homeland defense and reducing overseas military presence.

Langley made these remarks during African Lion 2025, the largest joint military exercise in Africa, involving more than 40 nations practicing combat operations and drone warfare.

Concerns are mounting that a U.S. pullback, particularly in unstable areas such as the Sahel—where al-Qaida and Islamic State are active—could create openings for extremist groups to gain influence.