Senator Jim Risch has been a strong voice in supporting the Trump administration’s strategy in Africa, where he emphasizes the importance of U.S. engagement in trade and investment as well as maintaining a firm stance on national security challenges. His comments, given to Fox News Digital, highlight the critical role that Africa plays in the U.S. interests, both economically and militarily. Risch expressed deep concerns over the growing influence of China, Russia, and Iran in Africa, all of which he described as threats to U.S. national security, citing their military interventions, exploitative trade, and involvement in strategic agreements as key factors in his criticism.
Among the pressing issues Risch discussed are the security threats in the region, including terrorism, conflicts, migration, and trafficking. He stressed that these challenges require direct and decisive action by the U.S., noting that the current administration has shown a more proactive approach. Risch pointed to recent airstrikes in Somalia as a demonstration of this strategy, which he believes is more effective compared to the past. He also highlighted the role of the U.S. military in Africa, stating that its primary objective is to protect American interests, including by targeting groups like Al-Qaeda and the Islamic State.
The security situation in Sudan is another focal point for Risch, where he has expressed concerns about the impact of Russia and Iran’s involvement in the ongoing conflict. With over 150,000 people estimated to have died and more than 12 million displaced since the fighting began, Risch called for an end to the war and emphasized the need to prevent the partition of Sudan, which he described as a major humanitarian crisis.
In South Africa, Risch raised concerns about the country’s engagement with Russian, Chinese, and Iranian officials and highlighted the government’s interactions with the Hamas terror group. He is critical of South Africa’s stance under the African Growth and Opportunity Act, a trade agreement with the U.S., and has voiced opposition to allowing U.S. representation at the upcoming G20 summit as a result of these concerns.
Risch also supported the Trump administration’s efforts to bring peace to the Eastern part of the Democratic Republic of Congo, expressing the belief that the U.S. should serve as a counterweight to China’s influence in the region. He acknowledged the need for stability in the area before the U.S. can fully counteract China’s strategic interests. Overall, Risch’s comments reinforce a conservative political stance, focusing on firm leadership, national security, and strategic foreign policy.