Very serious developments in Sudan

The events in Sudan over the past 24 hours are dramatic and alarming. Tensions are rising, as clashes between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) continue to escalate. There are disturbing reports that many civilians have been killed and injured. Among these are three UN employees who were killed on Saturday in the hostilities in Sudan’s Darfur region.

‘We condemn attacks on civilians. Norway urges the parties to end the fighting immediately and find a peaceful solution,’ said Minister of Foreign Affairs Anniken Huitfeldt.

Norway is represented with an embassy in Khartoum.

‘Early on Sunday the ambassador’s residence in Khartoum was hit by a shell. The ambassador was not injured, but the incident did result in damage to the property. We have no grounds to believe that the embassy was targeted. The incident is cause for grave concern, and we will be following the matter up,’ Ms Huitfeldt said. 

The embassy has introduced an wide array of security measures. The situation remains unpredictable.

‘We are deeply concerned about our employees at the embassy in Khartoum and Norwegian nationals in the country. We recommend that all Norwegians in Sudan stay indoors and do not try to travel. There is a risk of getting caught in crossfire as a result of the ongoing air strikes and violent street battles,’ Ms Huitfeldt said.  

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has been put on high alert to ensure we are doing everything in our power to protect our employees and assist Norwegian nationals in Sudan. We are in close contact with other countries regarding how to address the situation moving forward.