President William Ruto has announced that he held a strategic phone call with United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Monday, January 27.

This conversation, marking one of the first high-level interactions with the new Trump administration, has been seen by many as an attempt by Ruto to ensure continuity and possibly expand the scope of US-Kenya relations under the new US leadership.

The dialogue focused on reinforcing Kenya-US bilateral ties, particularly in trade, security, and regional peacekeeping efforts, with specific attention given to Kenya's leadership in the Multinational Security Support (MSS) mission in Haiti.

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Ruto and Rubio discussed the need to conclude the Strategic Trade and Investment Partnership (STIP) agreement, aimed at enhancing economic cooperation between the two nations.

During the call, the two also discussed the broader security landscape in Africa. Ruto briefed Rubio on the situations in Sudan, South Sudan, and Somalia, advocating for US support in peace-building initiatives.

Ruto also touched on the situation in DRC, stressing the need for support from the global superpower.

He commended the US for its commitment to deploying capabilities that could enhance these efforts.

"On regional peace, Rubio praised Kenya's efforts to promote regional stability...I am glad that the US has committed to continue to deploy its capabilities to support Kenya's peace mission in the region," Ruto said.

Public reactions to the development were varied. Some Kenyans commended Ruto for being proactive in safeguarding national interests on the international stage, especially given the US's significant role in global politics.

"Mr. president, we appreciate your efforts to bring peace and stability in the region. The crisis in DRC Congo needs collaborative efforts," commented social media user Albert Kiprop Kipkoech.

However, there's also a wave of scepticism among Kenyans, particularly from those who are critical of aligning too closely with Western countries, like Trump's America.

Elvis Mugari, an X (formerly Twitter) user, advised President Ruto that the continent's woes can only be solved locally.

"Dear President @WilliamsRuto, African problems must be solved by Africans, and Kenyan problems must be solved by Kenyans. There are no miracles coming from the West—fulfill your electoral promises," he wrote.

This development comes shortly after President Ruto appeared to publicly endorse Donald Trump's policy recognizing only two genders, male and female.

Ruto stated that the policy aligns with Kenya's cultural and religious values, adding that he is proud that what is happening in the US is what Kenya believes in; that men must remain men, and women must remain women.

This was a significant shift from his earlier stance during the Biden administration, where Ruto had advocated for valuing each individual's sexual orientation, promoting inclusivity and diversity in gender policies.

Source: TUKO.co.ke