Kenya has rejected claims of being diplomatically cornered following a move by the United States Senate to reassess the country's designation as a Major Non-NATO Ally.

Foreign Affairs Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi has downplayed the motion, saying it reflects the views of an individual senator and not the official position of the US government.

The motion, filed by Senate ranking member James Risch, seeks a review and possible revocation of Kenya’s newly acquired ally status, citing concerns over its growing ties with China, Russia, and Iran.

It also raises alarms over potential collaboration with extremist groups and the risk of American military and intelligence support being misused.

The proposal further calls for full disclosure of Kenya’s political, military, and financial dealings, particularly those involving China’s Belt and Road Initiative, which has brought in major infrastructure projects alongside increasing debt.

Mudavadi maintained that Kenya’s foreign policy will remain independent and firm, and the country will not be dictated to on who it can engage with globally.

“For your information, President Ruto has not made any trips to Russia, nor has he visited Iran,” he said.

He insisted that Kenya's sovereignty is not in question and reassured the public that Nairobi’s diplomatic decisions are based on national interests, not external pressure.

While addressing the issue of US scrutiny, Mudavadi also commented on growing tensions within the East African region.

A parliamentary committee has accused Tanzania of creating trade barriers against Kenyan businesses, while Tanzanian traders continue to enjoy free access to the Kenyan market.

The Committee on Regional Integration claims Dar es Salaam is selectively applying East African Community (EAC) rules.

In response, Mudavadi urged for calm and patience, saying that efforts to resolve the dispute diplomatically are ongoing. However, he noted that Kenya will consider other steps if talks fail.

“If talks collapse, then sanctions allowed under the EAC Treaty could be considered,” he said.

Despite this, observers point out that sanctions within the EAC have rarely been enforced with urgency or impact, casting doubt on their effectiveness if applied.

At a time when Kenya is facing pressure from global partners and regional neighbours, the government is trying to maintain a delicate balance, pushing back against foreign interference while working to preserve key alliances.