Sudan: Statement by the High Representative Josep Borrell on the situation in El Fasher

Credible reports indicate that tensions and violence are on the rise in and around El Fasher, Darfur.

Echoing the UN Security Council, the EU urges the warring parties to refrain from attacking the city and its surroundings and to de-escalate their respective military operations. Fighting in the area would have devastating consequences. Recently, villages have been scorched to the ground by the Rapid Support Forces in a likely ethnic cleansing campaign against the Zaghawa tribe, while indiscriminate aerial bombardments by the Sudanese Armed Forces resulted in the deaths of numerous civilians.

The EU renews its call to the belligerents to end the armed conflict and to allow unhindered humanitarian access. We will continue to sanction those who perpetuate instability and insecurity and obstruct the delivery of humanitarian aid. Those that have committed and continue to commit atrocities against the Sudanese people will be held responsible for their actions.