UK Remains Committed to Peace Efforts in Sudan Despite Russian Veto

The UK is steadfast in pursuing peace efforts in Sudan despite Russia’s veto of a ceasefire resolution. Development Minister Anneliese Dodds highlighted the urgent humanitarian needs of nearly 25 million people affected by the conflict. The UK has announced a significant aid package and remains committed to leveraging all diplomatic measures to protect civilians and facilitate humanitarian access.

The United Kingdom remains resolute in its pursuit of peace in Sudan despite a recent veto by Russia regarding a ceasefire resolution. Development Minister Anneliese Dodds expressed deep concern over the humanitarian crisis, noting that approximately 25 million people are in urgent need of assistance due to the ongoing conflict that erupted in April 2023 between military factions in Sudan. Underlining the UK’s commitment, Ms. Dodds affirmed that efforts to safeguard civilians would continue unabated, leveraging all diplomatic tools available, including the UN Security Council.

The UK held a Security Council session led by Foreign Secretary David Lammy earlier this month involving a draft resolution in collaboration with Sierra Leone calling for a national ceasefire in Sudan to address humanitarian needs. However, this proposal was blocked by Russia, which accused the UK of pursuing neo-colonial interests. Ms. Dodds emphasized that such opposition would not dissuade the UK’s efforts, which include a newly announced aid package worth £113 million aimed at supporting both those affected within Sudan and refugees fleeing to neighboring countries.

In light of the situation, Ms. Dodds reiterated the importance of international cooperation to alleviate suffering caused by the conflict and to hold those responsible for atrocities accountable. She called for the active engagement of the conflicting parties to ensure humanitarian aid access and to prevent further escalation of the crisis. The UK’s position reinforces a bipartisan concern among its officials, including Conservative shadow minister Wendy Morton, who described the crisis in Sudan as unconscionable and stressed the paramount need for an immediate cessation of hostilities.

Despite the setbacks, the UK government is dedicated to exploring additional diplomatic avenues, including ongoing support for the Jeddah process aimed at negotiating a sustainable ceasefire. Ms. Dodds further urged all warring factions to prioritize peace talks to avert a deeper humanitarian emergency, echoing concerns raised about the legitimacy of the RSF’s potential claims to governance which may further marginalize civilian welfare.

The conflict in Sudan, which began in April 2023, has led to widespread humanitarian crises affecting millions. The power struggle between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) has resulted in devastating consequences, with nearby nations also struggling to accommodate an influx of refugees. The UK’s recent attempts at advocating for a ceasefire through the UN Security Council faced challenges when Russia vetoed a resolution aimed at protecting civilians and facilitating humanitarian aid. This context underscores the urgent need for international collaboration to address the looming humanitarian disaster.

In summary, despite facing substantial challenges including a Russian veto on a ceasefire resolution, the United Kingdom is committed to ensuring civilian protections and advancing diplomatic efforts to mitigate the humanitarian crisis in Sudan. The UK has mobilized significant aid resources and remains determined to advocate for peace while calling on all stakeholders to actively engage in conflict resolution processes. The situation demands urgent action, as millions continue to suffer amid the ongoing conflict.

Original Source: www.independent.co.uk