Translation. Region: Russian Federation –
Source: United Nations – United Nations –
An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
January 30, 2026 Peace and security
Military tensions between government forces and opposition groups in South Sudan are "rapidly escalating." Speaking at a press briefing at UN headquarters in New York on Friday, Acting Head of the UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), Anita Kiki Gbeho, saidJonglei State has become a "hotbed of tension", where civilians find themselves caught in the crossfire.
More than 200,000 people have been forced to flee their homes this month as a result of the conflict, according to the UN representative, who also serves as the Resident Coordinator in the country.
She also warned of the spread of cholera. This month alone, over 500 cases have been registered across the country. Meanwhile, treatment centers are overcrowded and lacking medications and other essential supplies.
Difficulties in delivering aid
Although humanitarian operations continue, access is hampered by road and river restrictions, hindering aid delivery and medical evacuations.
The world's youngest state gained independence in 2011, but soon descended into civil war. Clashes erupted between forces loyal to the national army led by President Salva Kiir and supporters of the main opposition leader, Riek Machar, who is currently on trial on serious charges, including murder, which he denies.
After the opposition achieved some gains, government forces launched an offensive in three counties in Jonglei State this week. All civilians and humanitarian workers were urged to evacuate.
Humanitarian facilities were looted
According to Gbeho, "humanitarian facilities are being looted and destroyed (including at least seven in Jonglei), and humanitarian workers are being intimidated." UN peacekeepers are also facing similar difficulties.
The disruption of aid deliveries and peacebuilding efforts is affecting civilians. UNMISS warns that "all the conditions for a humanitarian catastrophe are present."
Speaking via video link from South Sudan, Gbeho stressed that despite the release of $10 million from the Central Emergency Response Fund, "more assistance is needed."
Restore peace
Despite the acute shortage of resources, the priority remains "ending the fighting, protecting civilians and preserving the peace process," as well as working with the African Union and the Intergovernmental Authority on Development to "restore commitment to the 2018 peace agreement."
Recalling about in the words of the UN Secretary-GeneralGbeho emphasized that "the solution to the current crisis must be political, not military." She called on South Sudan's leaders to take "urgent action to end the fighting, reduce tensions through inclusive dialogue, and return to consensus-based decision-making."
The Defining Moment
In conclusion, Gbeho emphasized that only the South Sudanese themselves can change the situation for the better.
She called the current stage "a defining moment—a critical crossroads for South Sudan." According to the head of the UN mission, decisions made now could lead the country either to peace or to further escalation of the conflict.
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