Khartoum _The European Union’s Ambassador to Sudan, Wolfram Vetter, condemned what he described as the Rapid Support Forces’ (RSF) policy of besieging and starving cities and strategic areas, calling the practice unacceptable and warning that those responsible could face sanctions and future accountability measures.
In remarks published by the EU Delegation to Sudan, Vetter cited areas including Al Jazirah State, El Fasher, Kadugli and Dilling, as well as Al Rahad, Babanusa, Bara and El Obeid, where he said civilians have been affected by siege tactics and restrictions linked to the conflict.
The war between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the RSF, which began in April 2023, has triggered one of the world’s largest displacement crises and left millions of people dependent on humanitarian assistance across Sudan.
Vetter said the European Union was closely monitoring developments on the ground and the humanitarian situation, adding that individuals responsible for violations would face consequences.
International organizations and UN agencies have repeatedly warned about the impact of sieges, movement restrictions and attacks on civilian infrastructure on access to food, healthcare and humanitarian assistance, particularly in conflict-affected areas of Darfur and Kordofan.
The RSF has faced repeated accusations from Sudanese authorities, rights groups and international observers of imposing sieges on cities and civilian areas, including El Fasher, the capital of North Darfur. The group has previously denied responsibility for some allegations and accused its opponents of violating international humanitarian law.
In recent months, several international organizations have reported growing concerns over civilian protection in areas affected by fighting, warning that prolonged restrictions on movement and aid deliveries could worsen food insecurity and humanitarian suffering.
The European Union has been among the largest providers of humanitarian assistance to Sudan since the outbreak of the conflict and has repeatedly called for a ceasefire, protection of civilians and unhindered humanitarian access throughout the country.
Vetter’s comments came days after a joint visit by European ambassadors to Sudan, during which EU diplomats reaffirmed support for Sudan’s unity and sovereignty, rejected parallel governing structures and urged all parties to move toward a comprehensive ceasefire.
