Africa Watch – A global pawn

Sudan’s Foreign Minister thanked Russia for blocking a UN resolution for international intervention, emphasising Sudan’s sovereignty. The country remains in turmoil as the military and Rapid Support Forces (RSF) continue fighting since 2023, causing over 28,000 deaths and mass displacement. Despite UAE calls for a Ramadan ceasefire, the army refused, demanding the lifting of city sieges. The military also accused the EU of backing the RSF, which the UAE denies. The conflict has led to famine, particularly in Darfur, and triggered the world’s largest displacement crisis, with millions fleeing to neighbouring countries.

Russia’s support for Sudan’s army, as stated by Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov, is ostensibly tied to its influence over the Sovereignty Council. However, this could be a strategic manoeuvre to maintain relations with the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and secure geopolitical and economic advantages. Russia has a history of exploiting Sudan’s gold reserves, often in violation of international sanctions. Since the Ukraine conflict began, Russia has supplied diesel to Sudan, circumventing EU and US embargoes and strengthening its economic presence. CNN reports from July 2022 suggest Russia’s involvement in illicit Sudanese gold exports, estimated at around $13 billion annually. This figure may be conservative due to the covert nature of these operations. This trade appears linked to the RSF, with shipments routed through the Central African Republic or directly to the UAE, a known hub for gold trafficking. Russia is also directly involved in gold mining in SAF-controlled areas.

Russia’s backing of General al-Burhan at the UN Security Council comes at a price. In return, Russia gains strategic benefits, including a naval base in Port Sudan on the Red Sea. Initially signed with Omar al-Bashir, this agreement was reaffirmed after Burhan confirmed its continuation, which led to Russia’s full endorsement of the SAF. The SAF’s participation in ceasefire talks is conditional, likely due to their belief in gaining ground. By late 2024, the RSF had made territorial advances, especially in Darfur, Khartoum State, Kordofan, and Gezira, while the SAF held key areas like Port Sudan and parts of the north. The situation remains fluid. The UAE’s alleged support for the RSF is a major obstacle to peace. The conflict is becoming increasingly internationalised due to the lack of effective mechanisms to pressure both sides towards peace.

Sudan’s Foreign Minister recently thanked Russia for blocking a UN Security Council resolution on international intervention, highlighting Khartoum’s alignment with Moscow. This rejection of foreign involvement reinforces Russia’s opposition to Western intervention and shields Sudan’s military leadership. The conflict between the SAF and RSF has claimed over 28,000 lives and displaced millions. Russia’s veto hinders international efforts to curb the violence and address the humanitarian crisis. Despite peace commitments, hostilities have made vast regions uninhabitable, worsened famine, and caused mass displacement. The SAF’s insistence on lifting RSF sieges before a ceasefire shows a prioritisation of military objectives. Sudan’s accusation of EU support for the RSF has strained relations, while the UAE denies involvement. These events illustrate the geopolitical competition in the region, with Gulf states, Western powers, and Russia vying for influence. Russia’s support for Sudan aligns with its African ambitions, particularly access to gold and potential military bases. By blocking UN intervention, Moscow strengthens its position and undermines multilateral peace efforts.

Sudan’s rejection of international intervention, backed by Russia, reflects a convergence of domestic, regional, and global power struggles. While Khartoum cites sovereignty, the humanitarian crisis suggests geopolitical interests are prioritised over civilian welfare. The international community faces a challenge: applying diplomatic pressure, delivering aid, and exploring alternative conflict resolution in a landscape resistant to traditional UN-led efforts.