Tim McKulka/UNMISS

UN peacekeepers patrol the Abyei area (file photo)

The UN has expressed readiness to support Sudan and South Sudan in resuming talks over the disputed Abyei border region, whose political process has stalled since the outbreak of the Sudan war in April 2023.

UN officials have told the Security Council that e="site-divison--2" href="http://politicsto.com">UNISFA, the peacekeeping mission in the oil-rich territory, continues to monitor the redeployment of forces, while increased RSF and South Sudanese troop presence has increased crime and intercommunity tensions, particularly in the area of Amiet Market. Drone strikes and economic disruption have created an unsustainable environment for peacekeepers in both Abyei and South Sudan, including an almost 25% contraction in the South Sudanese economy due to disrupted oil flows.

Despite these challenges, both countries have expressed willingness to resume dialogue, and UNISFA, in coordination with the African Union, stands ready to support renewed political engagement and facilitate humanitarian and security measures in the region.