Full Breakdown
Sudan’s Military Chief Rejects Talks, Vows to Retake All RSF-Held Territory
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event
Sudan’s army chief, Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, addressed a gathering in Village 5 of Merowe and announced that the armed forces will pursue a “military option” until the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) are expelled from the country. He rejected any negotiations to end the three-and-a-half-year war and pledged to seize “every inch” of territory currently controlled by the RSF.
Background & Context
The conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the RSF began in April 2023 after the two groups could not agree on integrating the paramilitary force into the regular army. Since then, fighting has spread across multiple states, prompting the United Nations and other international bodies to estimate tens of thousands of deaths and the displacement of roughly 13 million people.
Humanitarian Impact
- In West Kordofan, an RSF attack killed at least 10 civilians and wounded several others, according to a local charity group.
- The Dar Hamar Emergency Committee accused the RSF of multiple violations against civilians in Abu Ajal village, southeastern En Nahud.
- In Blue Nile, the International Organization for Migration reported that more than 5,500 people were displaced from villages over a three-day period as security deteriorated.
Official Statements & Responses
- Al-Burhan emphasized that the “military option” will continue until the RSF is removed, framing the campaign as a necessary step to restore national unity.
- Massad Boulos, senior adviser for Arab and African affairs to U.S. President Donald Trump, urged Sudanese parties to lead an inclusive, Sudanese-owned dialogue toward a civilian-led government.
- The U.S. State Department reiterated that neither the Sudanese Armed Forces nor the RSF, nor their leaders, constitute legitimate, constitutional governance for Sudan.
Implications
Al-Burhan’s refusal to negotiate signals a likely escalation of hostilities, raising concerns about further civilian casualties and displacement. International actors, including the United States, continue to call for a Sudanese-led political solution, but the military’s commitment to a force-first approach may limit diplomatic avenues and prolong the humanitarian crisis.