Sudan Accuses UAE of Deploying Mercenaries to Support Paramilitary Forces in Ongoing Civil War

Sudan has accused the UAE of deploying and financing foreign mercenaries to support the Rapid Support Forces in its civil war, a claim the UAE denies amid escalating regional and humanitarian concerns.

The government of Sudan has accused the United Arab Emirates (UAE) of sponsoring and deploying foreign mercenaries—primarily from Colombia and neighbouring African nations—to support the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in the country’s ongoing civil conflict.

In a strongly worded statement released by the Sudanese foreign ministry, officials claimed to possess “irrefutable evidence” of the UAE’s direct involvement in financing and facilitating the arrival of foreign fighters to aid the RSF. The ministry described the alleged deployment as a serious escalation and a potential threat to regional peace and security.

“These mercenaries have contributed to the destabilisation of Sudan and the worsening humanitarian crisis,” the statement read. “We call on the international community to investigate and hold the UAE accountable for its role in fuelling the conflict.”

The UAE, however, swiftly rejected the accusations, labelling them “baseless and misleading.” A spokesperson from the Emirati foreign ministry said the claims were an attempt to “derail ongoing diplomatic efforts to secure peace in Sudan” and insisted that the UAE remains committed to supporting stability and humanitarian assistance across the region.

The Sudanese civil war, which erupted in April 2023 between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the RSF, has left more than 40,000 people dead and displaced over 12 million, according to the United Nations. Both sides have been accused of committing severe human rights abuses, including mass killings, ethnic targeting, and attacks on civilians.

Experts warn that the involvement of foreign mercenaries could prolong the conflict and complicate mediation efforts already underway by African Union and Gulf intermediaries. Analysts also note that the use of third-party fighters reflects a concerning trend of proxy involvement by regional powers.

International calls for an arms embargo and coordinated peace talks have intensified in recent months, though progress remains stalled. Humanitarian organisations continue to face severe access challenges, particularly in the Darfur region, where much of the violence has been concentrated.

Meanwhile, Sudanese citizens caught in the crossfire are bearing the brunt of the prolonged instability, with millions at risk of famine, disease, and lack of access to essential services.

The Sudanese government has indicated that it will formally present its evidence to the United Nations Security Council and regional bodies in the coming days, as it seeks broader condemnation and potential sanctions against those allegedly aiding the RSF.

As the conflict drags into its second year, fears are mounting that Sudan may become another flashpoint for foreign influence and prolonged proxy warfare in an already volatile region.