PRESS RELEASE : Troika Statement on Attacks in Darfur, Sudan and the Need for a Cessation of Violence [November 2023]
The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 17 November 2023.
The Troika (Norway, the United Kingdom and the United States) have condemned the escalating violence and human rights abuses in Sudan.
Norway, the United Kingdom, and the United States (The Troika), condemns the escalating violence and human rights abuses in Sudan, especially attacks by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in West, Central and South Darfur. These have included – according to credible reports – mass killings including ethnic targeting of non-Arab and other communities, killings of traditional leaders, unjust detentions, and obstruction of humanitarian aid. We are also concerned by reports of violence in the town of Jebel Aulia, on the White Nile River, where there are reports of targeting of civilians.
We reiterate that there is no acceptable military solution to the conflict, and call for an end to the fighting. We urge the RSF and Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) to refrain from actions that would further divide Sudan along ethnic lines or draw other forces into their conflict. Both sides need to de-escalate and engage in meaningful discussions that lead to a ceasefire and unhindered humanitarian access. To that end, we welcome the recent resumption of talks in Jeddah, co-facilitated by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the United States, and the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), which is also participating on behalf of the African Union, and recognise the initial humanitarian commitments made by the parties on November 7.
Achieving a sustainable solution requires ending violence and resuming a civilian-owned political process to form a civilian government and restore Sudan’s democratic transition. We welcome the efforts of the Sudanese people as they work to support humanitarian responses, demand an end to the war, and resume the stalled political transition.
The Troika countries are proud to be among the largest donors in support of the Sudanese people, and we will continue to focus on efforts to ensure that diverse communities are able to participate meaningfully in building Sudan’s democratic future, at the same time as supporting displaced persons and other at-risk communities through life-saving humanitarian aid.
