Kenyan President William Ruto has publicly defended the country's deepening ties with China, emphasizing that the bilateral relationship serves Kenya's national and economic interests despite growing diplomatic tensions with the United States. Ruto highlighted that China has lifted all tariffs on key Kenyan exports such as tea, coffee, and avocado, framing the partnership as beneficial for Kenya's trade and development. This stance comes amid a move by the U.S. Congress to review and potentially revoke Kenya's status as a major non-NATO ally, a decision reportedly influenced by Nairobi's closer engagement with Beijing. While Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has expressed support for the U.S. review of Kenya's ally status, Foreign Affairs Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi has sought to reassure both domestic and international audiences that Kenya remains a sovereign state with strong ties to the United States and is not under siege. Mudavadi also dismissed notions of retaliation against Tanzania following its foreign business ban, underscoring Kenya's commitment to maintaining stable regional relations. The ongoing diplomatic developments reflect a complex balancing act for Kenya as it navigates its foreign policy between major global powers.