US Special Envoy for Sudan Tom Perriello on Monday held high-level discussions with Sudanese leaders, civil society representatives, and UN humanitarian officials during a visit to Port Sudan.
Describing the talks as “fruitful,” Perriello met with Lt. Gen. Abdelfattah El Burhan, his deputy Malik Agar, and other stakeholders amid a worsening humanitarian crisis and intensifying conflict.
The visit followed Russia’s veto of a UN Security Council resolution demanding an immediate halt to hostilities in Sudan. Originally scheduled for Sunday, Perriello’s arrival was delayed due to logistical issues, according to the Sudan News Agency.
Pushing for Peace and Humanitarian Access
Perriello emphasized US support for an immediate ceasefire and condemned ongoing atrocities in the war-torn nation.
Speaking with General Burhan, SAF leader, and Agar, a key political figure and deputy chair of the Sovereignty Council, Perriello reiterated the need for coordinated efforts to address Sudan’s humanitarian and security challenges.
The envoy praised recent government actions to improve aid delivery to the 25 million Sudanese facing severe hunger. “As the largest donor of humanitarian assistance to Sudan, we will work tirelessly to ensure food, water, and medicine reach all 18 states and refugee populations,” Perriello stated.
He highlighted the US government’s lifting of certain restrictions on Sudan, allowing access to development aid and programs such as USAID’s Global Health Initiative.
Addressing Border Challenges and Aid Flow
Perriello commended expanded humanitarian access across Sudan and welcomed the decision to ease restrictions at the Adré border crossing with Chad.
The crossing has been critical for aid delivery, despite allegations of its use for weapons smuggling to armed factions.
Discussions also focused on increasing aid shipments through Port Sudan and Adré, scaling up emergency air operations, and transitioning to civilian governance.
Perriello underscored that “ending the war and enabling the Sudanese people to shape their future” remains the ultimate goal.
Civil Society Engagement and Regional Cooperation
During meetings with civil society leaders and UN officials, Perriello addressed the urgent need to protect civilians and end abuses, particularly against women. “We share the desire to end the war and establish a unified, democratic, and peaceful Sudan,” he stated.
Perriello’s visit is part of a broader tour that includes Djibouti and Italy, where he will engage with Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) officials, NGOs, and other stakeholders to address Sudan’s deepening crisis.
Skepticism and Challenges Ahead
While the visit signals continued US engagement in Sudan, some observers view it as largely symbolic. Political analyst Fayez El Sheikh El Salek argued that the conflict’s complexity and the war’s escalating intensity make quick solutions unlikely.
Efforts to mediate peace, including US-led talks in Geneva, have thus far failed to halt the violence.
Throughout his tenure, Perriello has faced criticism from Sudan’s de facto government for alleged bias toward the Rapid Support Forces (RSF).
The envoy has also been outspoken about bureaucratic hurdles impeding aid delivery, accusing SAF authorities in Port Sudan of blocking or delaying emergency supplies.
UN officials and aid workers have echoed calls for a ceasefire, stressing that sustainable humanitarian efforts require an end to hostilities. “There are limits to what assistance can achieve without real peace and security,” said Mira Nasser, UNICEF Sudan’s communications director.
As Sudan grapples with one of its worst crises in decades, the international community continues to push for a resolution, but prospects for peace remain uncertain.
