Sudanese Army Chief Vows to Continue Combat Until RSF Disarms

Sudanese army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan declared the war will continue until the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) disarm, ruling out negotiations. Following recent military successes in Khartoum, he pledged to annihilate the RSF. The ongoing conflict has resulted in significant casualties and displacement, with the country’s control largely divided between the army and RSF.

In a recent televised address, Sudanese army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan asserted that the ongoing conflict will not cease until the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) disarms. He emphasized the possibility of ending nearly two years of conflict contingent upon the RSF laying down its arms, while firmly ruling out any negotiations with the group. Burhan committed to pursuing the RSF until all fighters have been eradicated, stating, “We will neither forgive, nor compromise, nor negotiate.”

Burhan’s speech follows the Sudanese military’s strategic recapture of the capital, Khartoum, where he celebrated by entering the presidential palace that had been under RSF control. The military’s significant counteroffensive, launched in November, secured key landmarks including the airport and the presidential palace. Although the RSF has been forced to retreat, its leaders have expressed unwavering commitment, asserting “no surrender.”

The RSF has recently formed a military alliance with a faction of the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-North (SPLM-N), aiming to establish a rival government. This coalition has resulted in escalated violence, with drone attacks reported in Damazin, where the army confirmed shooting down RSF drones. On the ground, the RSF also claimed to have captured a military base southwest of Damazin, signifying an ongoing power struggle.

The prolonged conflict in Sudan has wrought devastation, with tens of thousands killed and over 12 million people displaced. The country is now effectively divided, with the army controlling the northern and eastern regions, and the RSF dominating most of Darfur and substantial areas in the south.

In conclusion, Sudan’s military leader, Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, has firmly stated that hostilities will persist until the RSF disarms, negating the possibility of negotiations. The military’s recent victories in Khartoum signify a crucial turning point in the ongoing conflict, although the RSF remains determined. The war has had catastrophic implications for Sudanese society, leading to extensive loss of life and mass displacement, with territorial divisions persisting.

Original Source: www.france24.com