The European Union and nine foreign missions condemned the killing of civilians in South Sudan’s Jonglei state, citing credible reports of a deliberate massacre.
Saturday’s attack in Pankor village, Ayod County, was reportedly carried out by forces linked to the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces.
The statement urged an immediate halt to fighting and called for justice for those responsible, regardless of rank or political ties.
South Sudan gained independence in 2011 but descended into civil war in 2013 after a power struggle between President Salva Kiir and then-Vice President Riek Machar.
Despite a 2018 peace agreement and transitional government, clashes have persisted, intensifying in northern Jonglei since December.
Machar has been under house arrest since March 2025 and is facing trial amid ongoing political tensions.
