Troika condemns violence, human rights violations and attacks by the Darfur Rapid Support Forces

Norway, the United Kingdom and the United States of America condemned the escalation of violence and human rights violations in the Sudan, particularly attacks by the Rapid Support Forces in Western, Central and Southern Darfur.

In a statement, Troika said: “These violations have included – according to credible reports – mass killings, including ethnic targeting of non-Arab and other communities, killing of traditional leaders, unfair arrests and obstruction of humanitarian assistance. We are also concerned about reports of violence in the town of Jebel O ‘ah on the White Nile River, where civilian targeting has been reported.”

“We reiterate that there is no acceptable military solution to the conflict and call for an end to the fighting. We urge the Rapid Support Forces and the Sudanese Armed Forces to refrain from actions that would further divide the Sudan on ethnic grounds or drag other forces into their conflict.

Both sides need to de-escalate and engage in meaningful discussions leading to a ceasefire and unhindered humanitarian access. To this end, we welcome the recent resumption of talks in Jeddah with the joint facilitation of Saudi Arabia, the United States, IQAD and recognition of the initial humanitarian commitments undertaken by the parties on November 7. ”

The troika explained that a sustainable solution to ending violence in the Sudan required the resumption of the civilian-led political process to form a civilian government and restore the Sudan’s democratic transition.

The troika States stressed that they were proud to be among the largest donors to support the Sudanese people and said: “We will continue to focus on efforts to ensure that diverse communities can meaningfully participate in building Sudan’s democratic future, while supporting displaced persons and other vulnerable communities through life-saving humanitarian assistance.”