Somalia has reaffirmed its commitment to strategic defence cooperation with Türkiye, rejecting allegations that Turkish aircraft mistakenly targeted Somali government forces during fighting in the Leego area.

In its October 27, 2026 statement, Somalia's Office of National Security emphasized that military cooperation between Mogadishu and Ankara remains focused on combating terrorism, strengthening national security institutions and supporting lasting peace.

The statement followed the circulation of reports suggesting that Turkish air assets had accidentally struck Somali National Army positions.

Military cooperation discussed in Ankara

The clarification came one day after senior Somali and Turkish land forces commanders held talks in Ankara.

Somali Land Forces Commander Brigadier General Sahal Abdullahi Omar met Turkish Land Forces Commander General Metin Tokel to review bilateral military relations and explore opportunities to strengthen cooperation.

The October 26 meeting focused on training activities, operational capabilities and the continued development of Somalia's ground forces.

The Somali delegation expressed appreciation for Türkiye's role in supporting the country's armed forces and security institutions.

Türkiye's role in training Somali troops

Military education and capacity development remain central components of the two countries' defence relationship.

Türkiye has supported the training and equipping of Somali military personnel, including members of the Gorgor commando units.

During the Ankara visit, the Somali delegation also observed activities associated with a drone piloting competition involving Somali National Army personnel.

The discussions highlighted continuing military engagement, although no new bilateral defence agreement or deployment decision was announced.

Government disputes reports from Leego

Somalia's Office of National Security rejected claims that Turkish F-16 fighter jets or armed drones mistakenly struck Somali National Army positions during the October 26 fighting.

The government said Somali forces had not been accidentally targeted by Turkish aircraft.

The statement did not provide a comprehensive assessment of the fighting or release new casualty figures.

Counterterrorism remains a shared priority

The Federal Government reiterated that its cooperation with Türkiye is intended to strengthen Somalia's ability to address terrorism and broader national security challenges.

Officials also called for responsible reporting, warning that unsupported allegations could damage public confidence and undermine the morale of security personnel.

The latest clarification reinforces Somalia's stated commitment to maintaining close defence relations with Ankara while rejecting the specific allegations concerning Turkish aircraft and SNA positions in Leego.