The U.S. is set to advocate for an additional hundred million dollars in funding to address the conflict in Sudan, aiming to rally international support at an upcoming donor conference focused on the humanitarian crisis, announced the U.S. Special Envoy to the North African nation on Wednesday.
Special Envoy Tom Perriello expressed hope that global partners will prioritize the Sudanese civil war and contribute more significantly at the donor conference scheduled for April 15 in Paris.
This date marks one year since the conflict erupted, stemming from long-standing tensions that escalated into intense clashes between the army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF).
Perriello lamented the current international response, describing it as inadequate, with only 5% of the required funds raised so far.
He noted that the U.S. has already allocated over a billion dollars in humanitarian aid for the conflict and hinted at an upcoming substantial funding push without providing specific details.
The war has plunged millions into severe hunger and triggered the world’s largest displacement crisis.
In addition to seeking financial assistance, Perriello emphasized the U.S.’s commitment to assessing ground-level actions and implementing appropriate measures to increase pressure through sanctions and other means.
Since the conflict’s onset, the U.S. has imposed sanctions on the RSF’s deputy head, as well as on major businesses affiliated with both sides of the conflict.
Regarding peace negotiations, Perriello cast doubt on the resumption of talks by April 18, a date previously indicated by Washington.
He recalled last year’s unsuccessful peace talks led by Saudi Arabia and the U.S. in Jeddah and stated that while formal talks may not commence on the specified date, ongoing negotiations are a continuous effort.
Perriello expressed optimism about the Saudis’ commitment to inclusive talks involving key stakeholders and hoped for a definitive commitment to a new negotiation date.