The European Union on Wednesday said the Rapid Support Forces’ capture of El Fasher, North Darfur’s capital, is a significant turn in Sudan’s war that could further strain an already strained humanitarian situation. It referenced reports of attacks on civilians, and urged safeguards for non-combatants.
Brussels urged all sides to de-escalate in line with U.N. Security Council Resolution 2736 and to honor commitments made in the Jeddah Declaration. The statement said the RSF, as the force in control of the city, is responsible for the protection of civilians, including aid workers, local responders, and journalists. It called for immediate, safe, and unconditional humanitarian access across affected areas and for safe passage for civilians who wish to leave.
The EU said it remains in contact with the parties and international partners to press for a return to negotiations toward a permanent ceasefire. It added that it supports international efforts to ensure accountability for war crimes and crimes against humanity.
In 2025, the EU allocated more than €270 million for relief operations responding to the crisis in Sudan and its regional spillover, its largest humanitarian package in Africa this year. The bloc is also funding organizations documenting alleged war crimes to support future accountability.
