Sudan has been embroiled in a civil war for over 19 months, resulting in tens of thousands of deaths and displacing more than 11 million people. Aid workers describe the conflict as creating the world’s worst humanitarian crisis, with many at risk of famine. The war began in April of the previous year when the Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), a powerful paramilitary group, engaged in a brutal power struggle. The Sudanese military now controls the government.
UN Security Council’s Draft Resolution
On Monday, a draft resolution was proposed by the UK and Sierra Leone in the UN Security Council. The resolution called for an immediate ceasefire between both sides and the commencement of peace talks to negotiate a national ceasefire. It also urged the army and RSF to adhere to previous agreements designed to protect civilians. The resolution specifically called out RSF’s attacks in Darfur and other regions. However, it did not include certain clauses Sudan’s representative wanted, including one condemning the United Arab Emirates’ support of the RSF.
Russia’s Veto and International Reactions
In a move that sparked outrage from the UK and the US, Russia vetoed the resolution. British Foreign Secretary David Lammy labeled Russia’s veto as a “disgrace.” He criticized Russia for obstructing efforts to address the devastating situation in Sudan, emphasizing the toll on civilian lives. US Ambassador to the UN, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, accused Russia of playing both sides in the conflict to further its political interests, undermining humanitarian efforts.
Russia’s Defense
Russia, represented by Dmitry Polyanskiy, defended its veto by arguing that Sudan’s sovereignty was being ignored. Polyanskiy accused the UK of meddling in Sudan’s internal affairs and described the resolution as an attempt by the West to advance its own political agenda at the expense of Sudanese lives. Russia had previously been perceived as supportive of the RSF but now appeared to have shifted its stance.
Sudan’s Position
The Sudanese representative at the UN, Al-Harith Idriss al-Harith Mohamed, expressed dissatisfaction with the resolution, stating that certain key clauses Sudan had requested were not included. These included condemnation of the UAE’s backing of the RSF and the classification of the RSF as a “terrorist” group due to its alleged war crimes against civilians.
Critical Analysis
Experts, including Sudan analyst Alex de Waal, criticized Russia’s arguments, calling them extraordinary in the face of Sudan’s humanitarian catastrophe. De Waal pointed out that previously, African diplomats had played a role in bridging divides within the UN Security Council, but Russia’s veto marked a setback.
Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs):
1. What was the primary purpose of the UK and Sierra Leone’s proposed resolution to the UN Security Council?
- a) To impose sanctions on Sudan
- b) To call for an immediate ceasefire and peace talks between the Sudanese army and RSF
- c) To offer humanitarian aid to Sudan
- d) To condemn Russia’s involvement in the Sudan conflict
- Answer: b) To call for an immediate ceasefire and peace talks between the Sudanese army and RSF
2. Which country vetoed the UN Security Council resolution on Sudan?
- a) United States
- b) Russia
- c) China
- d) United Kingdom
- Answer: b) Russia
3. What was the main reason Russia gave for vetoing the resolution?
- a) The resolution ignored Sudan’s sovereignty
- b) Russia wanted to provide more humanitarian aid
- c) The resolution proposed sanctions on Sudan
- d) Russia did not agree with the UK’s role in Sudan’s affairs
- Answer: a) The resolution ignored Sudan’s sovereignty
4. What did Sudan’s ambassador request to be included in the resolution?
- a) A condemnation of the US’s involvement
- b) A clause condemning the UAE’s backing of the RSF
- c) A call for international military intervention
- d) A ceasefire with immediate effect
- Answer: b) A clause condemning the UAE’s backing of the RSF
5. Which region of Sudan did the resolution specifically mention in relation to RSF attacks?
- a) Khartoum
- b) Darfur
- c) Blue Nile
- d) Kassala
- Answer: b) Darfur