U.S. special envoy Tom Perriello met with Sudanese Army Chief Abdel Fattah Al-Burhan in Port Sudan to discuss strategies for ending the conflict and improving humanitarian access. This initial diplomatic engagement follows a prolonged stalemate in peace talks and comes amid Russia’s veto of a UN resolution urging an end to hostilities. The humanitarian crisis in Sudan has resulted in mass displacement and fatalities, necessitating immediate action.
On Monday, Tom Perriello, the U.S. special envoy, visited Port Sudan to meet with Army Chief Abdel Fattah Al-Burhan. This initial meeting focused on strategies to halt the ongoing conflict that began in April 2023 and has led to substantial humanitarian crises. The discussions emphasized the urgency of ceasing hostilities, ensuring humanitarian access, and establishing a civilian government in Sudan. This visit marks a significant diplomatic engagement following a prolonged impasse in peace negotiations since Sudan’s military withdrew from U.S.-led talks in Switzerland. During the meeting, Burhan acknowledged the discussions as “long, comprehensive, and frank,” indicating the critical nature of their dialogue. They discussed the challenging political landscape aggravated by the ongoing war between the regular army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), resulting in tens of thousands of fatalities and the displacement of millions. The humanitarian conditions have been described as among the worst globally, necessitating immediate action and support. Perriello noted on social media the importance of enhancing humanitarian access and reiterated the commitment of the United States to assist Sudanese citizens “in all 18 states plus refugees.” He also expressed a desire for an end to the atrocities witnessed during the conflict. Despite prior engagements yielding limited success, there is a concerted effort by international entities, including the U.S. and Saudi Arabia, to provide humanitarian aid, though the military and RSF have been accused of obstructing these efforts. The envoy’s visit is particularly timely given the recent veto by Russia on a UN Security Council resolution aimed at immediately halting the violence in Sudan, reflecting broader geopolitical tensions impeding resolution efforts. Burhan, while highlighting the need for humanitarian support, expressed rejection of any use of transit points for arms deliveries to armed groups. Both leaders reaffirmed their ambition to cease the conflict and alleviate the dire humanitarian situation.
The ongoing war in Sudan erupted in April 2023, primarily between the Sudanese Armed Forces led by General Abdel Fattah Al-Burhan and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) commanded by Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo. The conflict has led to catastrophic humanitarian impacts, with the United Nations reporting tens of thousands dead and millions displaced. International relations, particularly concerning U.S. mediation efforts, have been complicated by geopolitical dynamics, including Russia’s recent veto of a UN resolution calling for a ceasefire. U.S. envoy Tom Perriello’s first visit to Sudan underscores the critical necessity of addressing both humanitarian and political resolutions amid ongoing violence.
The meeting between U.S. envoy Tom Perriello and Sudan’s Army Chief Al-Burhan represents a pivotal moment in addressing the dire humanitarian crisis in Sudan amidst an ongoing conflict. With the humanitarian situation deteriorating rapidly, discussions centered on ceasing hostilities and facilitating aid delivery reflect an urgent need for international cooperation. However, geopolitical tensions and internal military dynamics continue to pose significant challenges to achieving lasting peace and security in the region.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
