UK Imposes Sanctions on Key Figures Fueling Sudanese Conflict
The UK government has implemented immediate sanctions against six individuals linked to the ongoing violent conflict in Sudan. The measures, announced by Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper, aim to hold accountable those responsible for atrocities and to support a humanitarian response for the millions affected by the crisis.
New Sanctions Target Key Individuals
Effective from 5 February, the British government has targeted senior leaders from both the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) as part of a broader effort to weaken the warring factions. These sanctions are part of the UK’s strategy to dismantle what it describes as Sudan’s war machine, amid escalating violence that has seen widespread atrocities against civilians, including mass rapes and killings.
- Hussein Barsham: RSF field commander accused of ethnic violence and forced displacement.
- Abu Aqla Mohamed Kaikal: SAF commander implicated in atrocities in Gezira state.
- Mustafa Ibrahim Abdel Nabi Mohamed: Director of al-Khaleej Bank, suspected of facilitating financing for the RSF.
- Claudia Viviana Oliveros Forero: Allegedly involved in recruiting foreign military personnel for the RSF.
- Mateo Andres Duque Botero: Also linked to the recruitment of foreign military personnel.
- Alvaro Andres Quijano Becerra: Involved in the recruitment efforts for the RSF.
Humanitarian Crisis in Sudan
During her visit to the Sudanese border in Chad, Foreign Secretary Cooper witnessed the dire humanitarian situation, speaking to refugees who escaped the violence. Her discussions highlighted the plight of women and children who have faced unimaginable suffering, including sexual violence and the loss of family members.
According to the World Health Organization, the scale of the crisis is alarming, with 9.3 million individuals displaced within Sudan, and an additional 4.3 million having sought refuge in neighbouring countries. More than 21 million people are now facing acute food insecurity.
UK’s Broader Strategy
These sanctions align with the UK’s commitment to ramp up international pressure on the parties involved in the conflict, particularly as it prepares for its presidency of the UN Security Council later this month. The Foreign Secretary emphasizes the necessity of a ceasefire and unimpeded access for humanitarian aid agencies to ensure support reaches those in need.
In December, the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office announced £21 million in additional aid, bringing the UK’s total contribution for the financial year to £146 million, which is set to provide lifesaving assistance to over 800,000 civilians affected by the conflict.
Looking Ahead
As Sudan continues to suffer from violence and turmoil, the UK is poised to prioritise the issue during its tenure at the UN Security Council. Plans are underway for an international conference in April, co-hosted by Germany, which aims to galvanize global efforts to end the violent conflict.
Source: official statements, news agencies, and public reports.
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/uk-imposes-fresh-sanctions-to-dismantle-sudans-war-machine
