Kenyan President William Ruto, alongside other regional leaders, held talks with Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud following Israel's controversial recognition of Somaliland as an independent state.

• The discussions, confirmed on Saturday, December 27, focused on bilateral, regional, and global issues, with leaders reaffirming support for Somalia's sovereignty and territorial integrity.
• Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu recognized Somaliland, promising economic and agricultural support, a move condemned by Mogadishu and raising concerns from the African Union.
• Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and several Middle Eastern countries including Saudi Arabia and Egypt have rejected Israel's declaration, describing it as a blatant violation of international law.