U.S. Accuses Russia of Funding Both Sides in Sudan Conflict at U.N.

In a sharp escalation of its stance, the United States accused Russia on Monday of financially supporting both warring factions in Sudan's ongoing conflict. The allegations were made during a United Nations Security Council session, with U.S. Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield pointing to Moscow’s actions as a deliberate effort to exploit the turmoil for its own strategic gains.

The conflict in Sudan, which erupted in April 2023, stems from a power struggle between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) amidst a planned transition to civilian governance. The violence has triggered a humanitarian catastrophe, with widespread displacement and food insecurity, making it one of the world's most severe crises.

Russia's Role Under Scrutiny

Thomas-Greenfield criticized Russia for its unilateral veto of a U.N. Security Council draft resolution in November that called for an immediate ceasefire and unhindered delivery of humanitarian aid. The resolution had garnered the support of all 14 other council members.

"Russia chose obstruction: standing alone as it voted to imperil civilians, while funding both sides of the conflict – yes, that's what I said: both sides," Thomas-Greenfield stated during the session. She did not provide additional details during her remarks.

A spokesperson for the U.S. mission later clarified Washington’s concerns, pointing to Russia’s involvement in Sudan's gold trade and alleged material support for the warring factions. "We condemn any financial or military support for the conflict, whether through illicit gold trading or the provision of military equipment," the spokesperson said.

The U.S. warned that Sudan’s gold mining collaboration with sanctioned Russian entities and individuals risks undermining the country’s long-term stability and the aspirations of its people for peace.

Russia's Rebuttal

In response, Dmitry Polyanskiy, Russia’s deputy U.N. Ambassador, dismissed the allegations as unfounded. "We regret that the U.S. tries to judge other world powers by its own yardstick," he said, accusing Washington of exploiting international relationships for its own economic gain under a so-called "Pax Americana."

Russia’s U.N. Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia previously rejected similar accusations in December, denouncing them as "fabrications spread by Western countries and their media."

Emotional Farewell from U.S. Envoy

Thomas-Greenfield, who has championed Sudan’s humanitarian crisis during her tenure, became visibly emotional during what she described as her likely final address to the council.

"For all the disappointment that I couldn't do more, that we – all of us – didn't do more – I still remain hopeful," she said. "Hopeful that the representatives sitting around this table – the colleagues who have become friends – will continue this sacred mission, this ultimate responsibility."

Appointed by President Joe Biden, Thomas-Greenfield’s tenure at the U.N. is set to end as Donald Trump assumes the presidency on January 20.

As the conflict in Sudan continues with no resolution in sight, the accusations against Russia underscore the geopolitical complexities surrounding the crisis. The international community remains divided on the path forward, with mounting pressure on all parties to prioritize the humanitarian needs of the Sudanese people.