Sudanese Deputy Commander Meets with Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Amid External Interference Challenges

Sudanese deputy commander-in-chief Shamsuddin Kabashi met with Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov to discuss bilateral cooperation and express openness to initiatives within the framework of Sudanese legitimacy. The meeting comes as the Sudanese armed forces make progress amidst challenges posed by external interference.

The discussion centered on reinforcing connections between Sudan and Russia, with Kabashi conveying Sudan's readiness to participate in mutually advantageous projects and programs. The meeting highlights Sudan's endeavors to maneuver through the intricate political terrain and preserve its autonomy while partnering with international allies like Russia.

Sudan has requested an emergency UN Security Council meeting to discuss what it calls UAE "aggression" for allegedly supporting paramilitaries battling the army. The UAE has rejected these allegations, stating they are "spurious and unfounded". The UN Security Council has expressed "deep concern" over escalating fighting in Sudan's North Darfur region and warned against the possibility of an imminent offensive by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and allied militias on the city of El Fasher, which is the last Darfur state capital not under RSF control.

Why this matters: The meeting between Sudanese and Russian officials illuminates the intricate geopolitical dynamics at work in Sudan as the nation wrestles with internal conflicts and external interference. The situation in Sudan has broader ramifications for regional stability and the role of international actors in the country's ongoing crisis.

The fighting in Sudan broke out in April last year between the regular army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) led by General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, known as Hemedti, who was the deputy of Sudan's ruling council head Abdel Fattah al-Burhan. Sudan has accused the UAE of supporting the RSF, a charge the UAE denies. The head of Sudan's public security service, Ahmed Ibrahim Mofadl, also visited Russia last week to participate in an international meeting of security officials and met with Bogdanov to discuss political and military developments in Sudan.

Key Takeaways

• Sudanese deputy commander met Russian deputy FM to discuss bilateral cooperation.
• Sudan seeks UN meeting on alleged UAE support for paramilitaries battling army.
• UN warns of imminent offensive by Rapid Support Forces on key Sudanese city.
• Meeting highlights Sudan's efforts to navigate political terrain and partner with allies.
• Situation in Sudan has broader regional implications and international involvement.