Nairobi, October 29 (Darfur24)
The European Union has described the Rapid Support Forces’ (RSF) capture of El Fasher, the capital of North Darfur, as a dangerous turning point in Sudan’s war, warning that it could further aggravate the country’s worsening humanitarian crisis.
In a joint statement, EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kajsa Kallas and European Commissioner for Crisis Management Haja Lahbib said that the targeting of civilians on ethnic grounds highlights the “brutality” of the RSF’s campaign.
The statement called on all parties to immediately de-escalate hostilities in accordance with UN Security Council Resolution 2736, and to fully respect international humanitarian law and the Jeddah Declaration.
It stressed that the RSF bears responsibility for ensuring the safety of civilians in areas under its control, including humanitarian workers, local responders, and journalists. The EU urged the group to grant unrestricted humanitarian access and allow civilians wishing to leave El Fasher to do so safely.
The European Union reaffirmed its commitment to supporting life-saving relief operations and said it remains ready to assist in efforts toward a lasting ceasefire.
“The European Union continues to engage with all parties and international partners to encourage a return to dialogue,” the statement concluded. “Those responsible for war crimes and crimes against humanity must be held accountable.”