GENEVA, Switzerland: US-sponsored talks aimed at securing a ceasefire in the ongoing Sudan conflict began in Switzerland on Wednesday, despite the notable absence of the Sudanese government.
The brutal war, which erupted in April 2023 between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF), led by General Abdel Fattah Al-Burhan, and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), commanded by his former deputy Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, has plunged the nation into one of the worst humanitarian crises globally.
The talks, convened by US special envoy Tom Perriello, are being held behind closed doors with only the RSF participating, while the SAF remains reluctant, dissatisfied with the format arranged by Washington.
This reluctance has raised concerns about the potential effectiveness of the negotiations that has support from the African Union, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, and the United Nations.
Despite the SAF’s absence, the talks are pressing forward, focusing on achieving a cessation of hostilities, enhancing humanitarian access, and establishing enforcement mechanisms. Perriello emphasized the urgency of silencing the guns in Sudan and warned that the world is closely watching the developments.
The conflict has devastated Sudan, forcing one in five people to flee their homes and leaving over 25 million—more than half the population—facing acute hunger. The humanitarian situation has been further exacerbated by both warring parties manipulating access to aid, violating international law. As the talks continue, the global community remains hopeful yet cautious, understanding that without SAF’s involvement, a comprehensive resolution may remain elusive.
