Guterres urges end to foreign interference in Sudan war
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UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres calls for an end to all foreign interference and arms flows into Sudan.
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United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres speaks during the 15th ASEAN United Nations (UN) Summit, as part of the 47th ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur, on October 27, 2025. (Chalinee Thirasupa/Pool Photo via AP)
United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Monday called for an immediate end to all forms of external interference in Sudan’s war, warning that the continued flow of weapons and support to the warring sides is “fueling the fire” and worsening an already catastrophic humanitarian crisis.
'External support and flow of weapons must end'
In remarks released by the UN, Guterres stressed that Sudan’s conflict, now entering its third year, has been prolonged by outside involvement that undermines peace efforts.
“The external support and flow of weapons must end. Those with the greatest influence on the parties must use it to better the lives of people in Sudan, not to perpetuate this disaster,” he said.
The UN chief added that the war between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) is “not only a Sudanese problem,” describing it as a regional crisis intensified by cross-border interference.
Outside interference 'fueling the fire'
Guterres’ appeal follows mounting reports of foreign-supplied arms and fighters entering Sudan through neighboring countries. UN agencies and rights groups have warned that regional and international actors are backing both sides, contributing to the collapse of ceasefire efforts and heightening civilian suffering.
Since the conflict erupted in April 2023, fighting has devastated large parts of the country, displacing millions and leaving Sudan on the brink of famine. Entire cities, including El-Fasher, the last major urban center in Darfur not under RSF control, have faced siege conditions and widespread destruction.
Read more: Thousands of children at risk of death in Sudan's El-Fasher: UN
A call for restraint and accountability
The UN continues to press for a ceasefire and humanitarian access, but Guterres cautioned that diplomatic efforts will fail unless those providing arms or funding to the belligerents are held accountable.
According to UN estimates, more than 10 million people have been displaced by the war, and over 25 million, half of Sudan’s population, are in need of humanitarian aid. Access to food, water, and medical assistance remains severely limited, with aid agencies warning of “imminent famine” in several areas.
Guterres reiterated that the war’s continuation “is a tragedy not only for Sudan but for all of Africa,” urging renewed global commitment to stop the bloodshed and end the external flows that sustain it.
