US Increases Sudan Aid by $203 Million Amid Escalating Crisis

The United States announced an additional $203 million in aid for civilians affected by Sudan's civil war. This funding boosts total U.S. contributions to $707 million since October. The war has displaced millions and threatens famine in many regions. The U.S. urges other nations to increase their aid efforts.

The United States will provide an extra $203 million to support millions of civilians impacted by the ongoing war in Sudan, U.S. Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield announced Thursday. She urged other nations to enhance their humanitarian aid efforts.

The newly announced funds aim to assist civilians in Sudan and those who have fled to neighboring countries since the conflict began in April 2023 between the Sudanese army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). A global monitor recently warned of a potential famine in 14 areas across Sudan if fighting continues. The U.N. World Food Programme has labeled the hunger crisis as the world's worst.

With this latest contribution, U.S. funding for Sudanese civilians in Sudan, Chad, Egypt, and South Sudan amounts to $707 million since October, as confirmed by a U.S. official. As the largest single donor, the U.S. emphasizes the dire need for greater international aid. Thomas-Greenfield, during her visit to Chad's border with Sudan in September, stressed the urgency of the situation, citing the severe humanitarian crisis and calling for a global response.

The conflict, initially triggered by plans to merge the army and paramilitary forces in a democratic transition, has fueled ethnically targeted violence predominantly attributed to the RSF. The United Nations reported that nearly 25 million people, half of Sudan's population, require aid, with famine looming and millions displaced. The RSF and associated militias stand accused of committing war crimes and ethnic cleansing.

Satellite imagery analyzed by Reuters revealed the rapid expansion of cemeteries, indicating widespread starvation and disease. Thomas-Greenfield stated the necessity for humanitarian funding and called on the warring factions to allow unhindered access to aid.

The U.N. Security Council adopted resolutions in March and June, demanding the cessation of hostilities, the removal of aid obstructions, and the protection of civilians. The U.S. remains committed to advocating for further U.N. action to ensure aid delivery to those in dire need.