The Trump administration is considering an executive action to dismantle U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM), transferring it under European Command (EUCOM), according to multiple sources familiar with the plans. Downsizing the U.S. Africa Command is believed to be part of Mr. Trump’s goal of downsizing the Pentagon, eliminating the bureaucracy, and withdrawing U.S. troops from certain places in Africa.

• The Trump administration is considering downsizing U.S. Africa Command as part of a Pentagon downsizing effort
• The proposal aims to transfer AFRICOM to a subcommand position under European Command, reducing its influence
• Some U.S. defense officials support the move, while others argue it would create a vacuum for Russia and China to fill

According to the CNBC, the proposed move is to transfer AFRICOM to a subcommand position under European Command. AFRICOM is the Pentagon Department responsible for US military operations, including fighting regional conflicts and maintaining military relations with 53 African nations.

Two U.S. officials familiar with the discussions disclosed that the proposal is under consideration, and some US defense officials are already in favour of the move. However, those who oppose the idea argue that the plan would reduce the influence of the U.S. military in Africa, creating a vacuum for Russia and China to fill. The Pentagon did not respond to a request for comment.

U.S. Africa Command Faces Uncertainty Under Trump’s Plan

AFRICOM was established in 2007 under the authority of President George W. Bush and became fully operational on Oct 1, 2008. General Ward was announced as AFRICOM’s first commander, and AFRICOM officially became operational as a sub-unified command of EUCOM with a separate headquarters.

With over 2,000 recruited personnel, including military, civilian, and contractor employees, AFRICOM’s mission is to work alongside African military personnel to support their military operations and keep American military forces out of direct combat as best as possible. The United States has faced criticism for constantly trying to interfere in direct action during missions with African military partners. Just recently, the U.S. launched an air strike in Somalia on Feb. 16 and another one over the weekend.

Earlier this month, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth visited the German headquarters of AFRICOM in Europe. The Pentagon said this stop was “part of a broader engagement that also included a stop at U.S. European Command (EUCOM).”