In a significant development on Friday, U.S. Special Envoy to Sudan Tom Perriello announced a renewed effort to impose an arms embargo on both factions of Sudan’s ongoing conflict.
Speaking from Geneva, Perriello emphasized the United States’ readiness to collaborate with all committed parties, including Russia and China, to enhance humanitarian aid and bring an end to the hostilities.
Perriello outlined the current diplomatic efforts, revealing that the U.S. has been engaged in intensive talks aimed at establishing a ceasefire and resuming negotiations. However, these efforts have been hampered by General al-Burhan’s army’s (SAF) refusal to participate in the talks, which have been spearheaded by a group of international mediators.
During the press briefing, Perriello disclosed that while some Sudanese army leaders were reportedly willing to join the discussions, they faced significant opposition from certain political forces. Although he did not specify these forces, he indicated that they have been obstructing the peace process.
RSF has repeatedly blamed the Islamic Movement and its jihadists embedded inside the armed forces for prolonging the fight.
In a notable shift, Perriello confirmed that the United States is prepared to work with any willing partner, including Russia and China, to facilitate the delivery of humanitarian aid, protect civilians, and work towards ending the conflict.
The conflict in Sudan has drawn in various international actors, with allegations of military support for the warring factions from countries such as the UAE, Russia, and Iran.
Reports suggest that the Rapid Support Forces have received aid from the UAE, while the Sudanese army (SAF) is accused of receiving military support from Moscow and Tehran.
Perriello highlighted the urgent need for not only humanitarian assistance but also a halt to arms exports and a return to peace talks.
He criticized General Burhan and his SAF for its role in the conflict, particularly its refusal to engage in negotiations, which he attributed to contributing to the ongoing loss of life.
The Geneva talks concluded with the establishment of a Conduct Mechanism aimed at protecting civilians and addressing complaints. While this mechanism has been approved by the Rapid Support Forces, General Burhan’s SAF has yet to endorse it.
The army-run Sudanese government’s refusal to join the Geneva negotiations, combined with its objections to the UAE’s involvement and demands for agenda preparation, has further complicated the situation.
RSF leadership has repeatedly called for negotiations to end the conflict even though the group holds the upper hand in the battlefield and has routed al-Burhan’s army and its allied jihadist militias in Sennar and Darfur states.
The Geneva consultations also led to the formation of an international alliance, including the United States, the United Nations, the African Union, IGAD, Switzerland, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Egypt, to continue efforts to end the war and support the Sudanese people.
