Norway has strongly refuted claims that a new U.S.-backed humanitarian truce proposal is being prepared for Sudan, saying the reports stem from a “misunderstanding” that risks complicating fragile diplomatic efforts. The clarification comes as Sudan’s civil war continues to fuel what the United Nations describes as the world’s most severe humanitarian emergency.
Norwegian State Secretary Andreas Motzfeldt Kravik, who visited Khartoum on Thursday for talks with Sudan’s military leadership—including Sovereign Council chairperson Abdul Fattah al-Burhan—said there had been no new initiative from Washington despite speculation in regional media.
“There is no new proposal for a humanitarian truce. The only proposal remains the one presented several weeks ago,” Kravik stated, emphasising that claims of a fresh U.S. draft were “without foundation.”
He added that he had confirmed the matter directly with U.S. Senior Advisor Masad Boulos, in an attempt to dispel rumours that had circulated widely and prompted expectations of renewed negotiations.
Confusion Raises Concerns for Ongoing Mediation
Reports of a new U.S.-sponsored document gained traction after weeks of intensified diplomacy aimed at easing Sudan’s humanitarian catastrophe. Analysts say such confusion can undermine coordinated international efforts, especially when warring factions are already deeply suspicious of external mediation.
Kravik noted that Norway remains committed to the existing humanitarian truce framework, which seeks to pause hostilities long enough for life-saving assistance to reach civilians trapped by violence.
“A truce should not be mistaken for a ceasefire or political settlement,” he said. “It is a temporary measure to facilitate humanitarian access.”
He stressed the importance of unrestricted aid delivery, calling it a critical requirement for any progress in the crisis.
Sudan’s Conflict Continues to Devastate Civilians
Sudan has been locked in conflict since April 2023, when clashes broke out between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The escalating violence has displaced millions, destroyed essential infrastructure, and severely restricted humanitarian access.
International partners—including the U.S., Norway, and regional mediators—have pushed for a truce as a precursor to broader political talks. However, repeated ceasefire attempts have collapsed, and humanitarian corridors remain difficult to secure.
Norway Urges Cooperation and Warns Against Disinformation
Kravik urged all sides to engage constructively with the standing proposal and warned that misinformation could derail the limited progress made so far.
He also highlighted the importance of the Adre border crossing, one of the few operational routes allowing humanitarian supplies into Sudan from neighbouring Chad. Aid agencies say the crossing has been vital for reaching displaced communities in Darfur and surrounding regions.
Norway, a long-time partner in Sudanese peace efforts, reaffirmed its readiness to support mediation but stressed that clarity and coordinated messaging are essential as the crisis deepens.
Source:Africa Publicity
