Sudan’s Paramilitary Chief to Join US-Mediated Ceasefire Talks

Sudan's paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) leader, Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, has announced his willingness to engage in US-mediated ceasefire talks with the Sudanese army. The discussions, set to begin on August 14 in Switzerland, aim to achieve a comprehensive ceasefire and facilitate humanitarian aid across the country.

Dagalo emphasized the importance of saving lives, halting the conflict, and progressing towards a peaceful, negotiated political solution. He reaffirmed his commitment to restoring civilian rule and democratic transition in Sudan.

The United States, with Saudi Arabia as a co-host, has invited both the Sudanese army and RSF to these talks. Observers from the African Union, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, and the United Nations will also participate.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken highlighted the devastating impact of the conflict, urging both parties to approach the talks constructively.

Since the war erupted in April 2023, nearly 10 million people have been displaced, with widespread famine and ethnically-driven violence reported, primarily blamed on the RSF.

The goal of the Switzerland talks is to build on previous negotiations in Jeddah, which broke down last year, and move towards a nationwide cessation of violence, according to State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller.