President Ruto’s recent visit to China has triggered unease among US senators.
Tension is rising in Washington after President William Ruto’s latest visit to Beijing, where his choice of words has sparked debate over Kenya’s global alliances. The trip, aimed at deepening ties with China in areas like trade and infrastructure, has now caught the attention of US lawmakers.
During a keynote speech, Ruto described Kenya and China as “co-architects of a new world order”—a phrase that didn’t sit well with American leaders, particularly given the current global climate.
US Lawmakers Read Ruto’s Message as Loyalty to Beijing
While addressing a Senate committee, Senator Jim Risch strongly criticized Ruto’s remarks, calling them more than just friendly diplomacy. According to him, the statement reflected a clear alignment with China, which could potentially complicate Kenya’s standing with the US.
“Referring to China as a partner in building a new global order isn’t just support—it’s choosing sides,” Risch stated, urging the US to rethink its ties with nations showing open support for Beijing.
A Contrast from Recent Warm US-Kenya Relations
These concerns come shortly after a historic milestone in US-Kenya relations. In May 2024, President Ruto visited Washington and signed agreements that elevated Kenya to the status of a major non-NATO ally—a move meant to deepen cooperation in defense, security, and diplomacy.
That designation was seen as a strong signal of trust between the two nations, making Ruto’s shift in tone during the Beijing visit even more puzzling to US officials.
China’s Influence Over Kenya Raises Questions
Though Kenya and the US have long worked closely on trade, counterterrorism, and peace missions in East Africa, there has also been a growing Chinese footprint in the country. Beijing has funded numerous mega-projects in Kenya, from roads to railways, raising concerns about increasing debt and influence.
President Ruto appears to be walking a tightrope—trying to work with both world powers. However, some US leaders now believe that Kenya may be leaning too far east, especially at a time when US-China relations remain tense.
No Official Reaction Yet
As the debate grows in Washington, both the Kenyan government and the US State Department have remained silent. It’s unclear whether Ruto’s remarks will have lasting diplomatic effects, but they’ve certainly ignited questions about Kenya’s future position on the global stage.
