Russia has vetoed a United Nations Security Council resolution aimed at ending hostilities in Sudan, where a devastating conflict between two rival generals has been ongoing since April 2023.
The resolution, drafted by the UK and Sierra Leone, called for an “immediate cessation of hostilities” and urged both sides to engage in dialogue to establish a national ceasefire.
It sought to address the growing humanitarian crisis in Sudan, where fighting between the national army, led by General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), headed by General Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, has left tens of thousands dead.
The war has displaced more than 11 million people, with 3.1 million fleeing the country.
Civilians continue to bear the brunt of the violence, with 26 million people facing severe food shortages. Both sides have been accused of committing atrocities, including widespread sexual violence, according to the UN.
During the council discussions, UN Under-Secretary-General for Political Affairs, Rosemary DiCarlo, highlighted that both factions seem focused on achieving military dominance rather than pursuing peace.
The blocked resolution emphasised commitments made by the warring parties in 2023 to protect civilians, halt sexual violence, and allow unimpeded humanitarian access. It also warned against external interference and urged countries to uphold the arms embargo in Darfur.
Despite support from other council members, Russia opposed the resolution.
Past Security Council resolutions on Sudan, including a March call for a ceasefire and a July appeal to lift the siege on El-Fasher, have had little effect on the ground.
