A fresh attempt to broker peace in Sudan has faltered before it even began.
Despite the dire humanitarian situation and international pressure, both the Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have refused to participate in the US-led talks.
The conflict, now in its 16th month, has caused a catastrophic humanitarian crisis, with thousands killed, millions displaced, and widespread famine.
The UN has described the situation as the “world’s worst hunger crisis.”
The army justified its absence by accusing the RSF of failing to adhere to previous agreements, while the RSF cited unspecified reasons for their withdrawal.
The US, undeterred, has vowed to continue efforts to end the crisis, involving other stakeholders in the process.
Meanwhile, the conflict on the ground shows no signs of abating.
Intense fighting in the western Darfur region has forced tens of thousands to flee, and medical facilities are struggling to cope with the influx of wounded.
The failure of these talks casts a long shadow over the prospects for peace in Sudan, raising concerns about the potential for further escalation and a deepening humanitarian catastrophe.
