Senegal’s Prime Minister, Ousmane Sonko, has criticised US President Donald Trump, describing him as a destabilising force and warning that the world has become more dangerous since he assumed office.
Sonko made the remarks during an international conference on sovereignty held at the Museum of Black Civilisations in Dakar. A video of his address was later shared by Al Jazeera.
According to him, Trump’s leadership has contributed to growing global instability rather than peace.
His comments came just days after Washington and Tehran announced a ceasefire following a military conflict that lasted more than six weeks. The crisis began after US and Israeli strikes on Iran in late February.
Sonko argued that none of Washington’s stated objectives in the conflict were achieved, including reducing Iran’s ballistic capacity or forcing Tehran to abandon its nuclear programme.
He added that despite heavy bombardment and a large-scale military deployment, the United States ultimately had to return to negotiations with Iran.
The ceasefire, announced on April 8, reopened the Strait of Hormuz and initiated talks aimed at reaching a long-term agreement, with both sides agreeing to suspend hostilities for two weeks.
Sonko questioned whether global security had improved since Trump returned to power, asking if the world had become safer, more stable, or more peaceful.
He also reviewed US military operations over the past two decades, arguing that many interventions have led to instability rather than lasting solutions. He described the Iran conflict as another example of military overreach.
The Senegalese leader further criticised what he called the hypocrisy of some Western governments that condemn violations of international law while allowing their military bases to be used for operations.
Sonko warned that the conflict also posed serious economic risks, particularly through disruptions to the Strait of Hormuz, a key route for global oil and trade flows.
He said rising energy costs could trigger broader effects, including food supply disruptions and increased pressure on African economies.
Sonko concluded by calling for stronger African unity, urging countries on the continent to pool their resources and mobilise young people in pursuit of greater sovereignty.
