Sudan Embraces U.S.-Sponsored Peace Talks in Geneva

Sudan has conditionally accepted an invitation to attend U.S.-backed peace talks in Geneva, aimed at ending a 15-month war between the government-aligned army and Rapid Support Forces (RSF). Past talks have failed, but the Geneva meeting provides new hope. The war has caused substantial humanitarian crises, with significant displacement and famine.

Sudan's government has conditionally accepted an invitation to U.S.-sponsored peace talks in Geneva, news which has raised hopes for ending a 15-month-old conflict.

The government, aligned with the army, has resisted recent peace bids and emphasizes military victory under Islamist influence. The planned Geneva talks aim to bring the army and RSF together for the first significant negotiation attempts in months. The RSF accepted the U.S. invitation last week.

The Sudanese Foreign Ministry stated that they are focused on saving lives and dignity, willing to cooperate with any peace-promoting entities. The war has led to massive humanitarian crises, including displacement and potential famine. Previous talks, notably in Jeddah, failed. The RSF controls eight of Sudan's 18 state capitals and continues expanding southeastward. Despite this, the government demands a halt to RSF expansion for any negotiations. Meetings with U.S. officials are requested to discuss the Geneva talks' agenda.

U.S. special envoy Tom Perriello indicated a positive reception from both sides for preliminary meetings. A previously planned meeting in Port Sudan was canceled but may be rescheduled. The Geneva talks, co-hosted by Saudi Arabia, would involve Egypt, UAE, and other stakeholders. The UAE’s participation, supported by various perspectives, is seen as crucial to achieving and enforcing a peace deal.