The United Nations Security Council approved a resolution on Thursday extending its peacekeeping mission in South Sudan for another year.
The mandate for United Nations Mission in South Sudan will now run until April 30, 2027, following a vote marked by cautious consensus.
Thirteen members supported the measure, while Russia and China abstained, signalling unease over planned operational changes.
The resolution reduces the authorised troop ceiling to 12,500 soldiers, down from 17,000, alongside roughly 2,100 police officers.
Yet the decision carries a symbolic weight, as current deployment levels have already fallen well below the newly imposed limits.
According to UN data, about 9,000 troops were stationed in the country by late March, reflecting a steep decline from previous years.
The council also tasked the Secretary-General’s office with conducting a capability study within 120 days to evaluate mission effectiveness.
Criticism emerged from several delegations, including Pakistan and African members, who warned of risks to civilian protection and humanitarian operations.
China’s envoy cautioned that existing reductions had already strained the mission’s ability to shield vulnerable populations and deliver aid.
Russia echoed concerns, urging that peacekeepers retain sufficient resources to respond swiftly to worsening scenarios on the ground.
Diplomats described the resolution as a delicate compromise, after the United States initially pushed for a far steeper troop reduction.
US Ambassador Mike Waltz voiced disappointment, though he backed the measure as a step toward streamlining operations.
He argued the deeper challenge lies with national authorities, accusing them of undermining commitments to peace and cooperation with the mission.
Since independence in 2011, South Sudan has endured cycles of conflict that continue to test fragile political arrangements.
Recent weeks have seen renewed clashes between forces loyal to Salva Kiir and supporters of detained opposition leader Riek Machar.
