No Military Solution to Sudan's Political Crisis, Says US

General Burhan

In a Department Press Briefing on April 20, 2023, Vedant Patel, the Principal Deputy Spokesperson, addressed the ongoing conflict in Sudan and the Black Sea Grain Initiative. Patel started off by emphasizing the importance of the Black Sea Grain Initiative, a vital tool to combat global food insecurity and stabilize food prices. The initiative has moved 28 million tons of food onto the global market in just nine months. Patel expressed deep concern over Russia's recent actions to obstruct the initiative's operations, preventing the continued inspection of ships seeking to sail into Ukraine ports to collect grain, and threatening the safety of commercial ships participating in the initiative.

Black Sea Grain Initiative Under Threat

The obstruction of BSGI operations harms global food security by delaying shipments, restricting supplies, and keeping prices high for food-importing countries. Patel emphasized the need for Russia to allow the Black Sea Grain Initiative to operate at its maximum potential and for Ukrainian grain to reach the world unimpeded.

US Condemns Violence in Sudan: Calls for Ceasefire Extension

Moving on to the Sudanese political crisis, Patel condemned the violence between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces, stating that there is no military solution to the country's political crisis. He urged the SAF and RSF to extend the current ceasefire through Sunday, April 23rd, which would be the end of Eid. Patel mentioned that Secretary Blinken has been in direct communication with Generals Burhan and Hemedti and has made it clear that any attacks, threats, and dangers posed to U.S. diplomats are unacceptable. 

The embassy in Khartoum continues to remain in close contact with Ambassador Godfrey, and the Pentagon is monitoring the situation closely and conducting prudent planning for various contingencies. Additional capabilities are being deployed nearby to the region should circumstances require it.

US Deploys Assets Near Sudan as Conflict Escalates

When asked about the different countries supporting various sides in the Sudanese conflict, Patel reiterated the focus on ensuring the safety and security of U.S. personnel in the region and working with regional and other partners to establish an immediate ceasefire, take steps to reduce tensions and ensure the safety of all civilians, including UN workers, humanitarian workers, and diplomatic personnel from other capitals. Patel also emphasized that there is no military solution to the crisis, and other countries can speak their own viewpoints on the conflict.

In conclusion, Patel highlighted the urgency of resolving the Sudanese political crisis and the need for all parties to respect the ceasefire and prioritize the safety of civilians and diplomatic personnel. The Black Sea Grain Initiative must also be allowed to operate at its maximum potential to combat global food insecurity and stabilize food prices. The United States is committed to working with its allies and partners to address these urgent issues and promote peace and stability in the region.

By 

Gbolahan Alabi-Isama MS.