Washington: Efforts to Initiate Talks Between the Army and Militia

The US envoy to Sudan, Tom Perriello, accused what he termed “negative forces” of hindering efforts to stop the war in the country. In a press conference on Thursday, Perriello confirmed ongoing attempts to initiate talks between the army and the RSF, despite the challenges. He expressed dissatisfaction with “other negative forces that seek to prolong and intensify the conflict,” naming elements of the previous regime, which the Sudanese people reject, as obstacles to the Sovereignty Council’s efforts to end the war. He also pointed out that foreign fighters are coming to join the conflict, with these negative forces aiming for long-term regional instability.

Perriello noted that other countries, including the US, are engaging with both sides to clarify negotiations and implement the Jeddah Agreement, expressing hope for a peaceful resolution soon. He called on some international parties to stop supplying fighters with weapons and work towards a ceasefire, emphasizing that everyone is committed to imposing sanctions on those involved in this matter. Perriello warned that the current situation in Sudan could lead to the country’s fragmentation, citing the humanitarian crisis affecting 25 million people and 10 million displaced persons, posing a threat to regional stability.

He acknowledged the difficulties in delivering humanitarian aid to Sudan, especially with ongoing RSF artillery shelling and the challenges posed by floods and storms. He stressed the need to monitor and halt these disruptions. The US diplomat also emphasized the importance of international efforts to stop the violence and urged the warring parties to adhere to humanitarian law. He mentioned upcoming alternative approaches to reduce hostilities and achieve the Sudanese people’s aspirations for a return to civilian rule.

Perriello noted that the US is the largest donor to Sudan, providing around $400 million in food and medical aid and granting $1 billion to support refugees in neighboring countries. He emphasized the commitment of President Biden and Secretary Blinken to working with partners to reduce hostilities and deliver aid. He also highlighted Egypt’s significant role in addressing the seriousness of the Sudanese crisis. Additionally, Perriello revealed on Thursday that RSF forces are massing around El-Fasher, planning a new attack on the capital of North Darfur. He tweeted that “humanitarian workers on the front lines reported desperate conditions in El-Fasher, where RSF forces are mobilizing for another attack.”