Russian Envoy Says Armed Groups Obstruct Settlement Efforts in Sudan

(MENAFN) Efforts to resolve the long-standing dispute over the Abyei region between Sudan and South Sudan are being hindered by ongoing insecurity and the actions of armed groups, according to a Russian representative at the United Nations cited by reports.

Speaking before the UN Security Council, Deputy Permanent Representative Anna Evstigneeva stated that progress on the Abyei issue remains stalled due to wider regional instability. She pointed to continued fighting in parts of South Sudan and the presence of what she described as destabilizing armed elements contributing to the deteriorating security environment.

She specifically referenced activity by Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces, saying their actions are complicating stabilization efforts along the border area. According to her remarks, the broader situation in Abyei is closely tied to ongoing conflict in other regions of Sudan, including areas experiencing active hostilities.

Evstigneeva added that the absence of Sudanese Armed Forces in the disputed territory highlights the role of non-state armed actors as a major barrier to initiating structured political negotiations. She also noted concerns about risks to international personnel operating in the area.

She further argued that groups opposing authorities in Khartoum are the primary obstacle to launching a comprehensive settlement process, as stated in her briefing.

The comments come amid Sudan’s continuing civil war, which has contributed to widespread instability across multiple regions. The conflict has also affected neighboring South Sudan, which has faced persistent political and security challenges since its independence from Sudan.

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