The United Nations Security Council on Thursday demanded an immediate cessation of hostilities in South Sudan, urging political dialogue instead of violence.
In a resolution passed by 12 votes, with Russia, China, and Pakistan abstaining, the Council condemned ongoing clashes and renewed the UN peacekeeping mission for another year.
The text highlighted deep concern over violence against civilians and the reported use of barrel bombs in northern regions, prompting alarm from human rights groups.
South Sudan, one of the world’s youngest nations, has struggled with political instability and insecurity since gaining independence in 2011.
Recent clashes in Upper Nile State between factions loyal to President Salva Kiir and Vice President Riek Machar have heightened fears of renewed civil war.
The renewed mandate allows for adjustments to the peacekeeping mission’s size and scope depending on evolving security conditions on the ground.
Acting US Ambassador Dorothy Shea said the mission remains a critical tool to pull the nation “back from the brink” of further collapse.
Shea also criticised the transitional leadership’s decision to delay elections by two years, calling continued election funding “irresponsible” under the circumstances.
The Security Council’s action underscores international frustration with South Sudan’s stalled peace process and the human toll of the persistent violence.
With renewed international attention, the fragile nation faces mounting pressure to choose diplomacy over destruction.
