EXCLUSIVE — US gives UN more time to end support for Somalia peacekeepers

Analysts warn of turmoil if peacekeeping force goes US had said it would block funding for UN office from start of next year New 12-month countdown starts in January, sources say By Faisal Ali and Ammu Kannampilly MOGADISHU/NAIROBI, Sept 18 (Reuters) — The United States has agreed to give the UN another year to wind down its support for African peacekeepers in Somalia, a document showed — a move that gives some breathing space to a force that was fearing quicker cuts, but still leaves its future in peril. Analysts have warned that any weakening of the African Union peacekeepers would severely undermine the government there and could exacerbate the political turmoil in a combustible region bordering the Red Sea. 'A Real Risk Of State Fragmentation' The peacekeepers, known as the AU Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia, rely heavily on UN support for essential logistics such as food, water, fuel, medical services and transp