WASHINGTON, D.C. — The United States says it is intensifying diplomatic efforts to end Sudan’s year-long civil war, following reports of mass killings and other atrocities during the capture of the key city of Al-Fashir by paramilitary forces last week.
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said on Tuesday that Washington is working “with partners around the world” to secure a peaceful resolution to the conflict, which has plunged the northeast African nation into one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises.
“The United States has actively engaged in efforts to bring about a peaceful resolution to the terrible conflict in Sudan,” Leavitt said.
The remarks came days after the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) seized control of Al-Fashir, the last major stronghold of the Sudanese army in the western Darfur region.
The RSF’s victory effectively gives the paramilitary group control over more than a quarter of Sudan’s territory, marking a major shift in the balance of power.
The United Nations said hundreds of civilians and unarmed fighters may have been killed during the assault.
Witnesses reported that RSF fighters separated men from women and children before executing several groups. The RSF has denied targeting civilians.
The International Criminal Court (ICC) has opened investigations into alleged war crimes in Al-Fashir, including reports of mass killings and sexual violence.
The conflict, which began in April 2023 as a power struggle between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the RSF, has displaced more than 10 million people and created acute food shortages across the country, according to U.N. estimates.
Peace efforts led by the U.S., Saudi Arabia, and African Union have repeatedly faltered amid continued fighting and mutual distrust between the rival forces.
