The European Council imposed sanctions on six entities on Monday, for their involvement in the ongoing war in Sudan, where the Sudanese Army has been engaged in conflict with the Rapid Support Forces since April.
In a statement, the Council declared that these six entities are responsible for “supporting activities undermining stability and the political transition in Sudan.”
The sanctioned entities include:
1. Two companies involved in manufacturing weapons and vehicles for the Sudanese Army, specifically “Industrial Defense System” and “SMT Engineering Industries Company.”
2. “Zadna International Investment Limited,” a company controlled by the Rapid Support Forces.
3. Three companies implicated in procuring military equipment for the Rapid Support Forces, namely “Aljunaid Multi Activities Limited Company,” “Tradive General Trading Limited,” and “GSK Advance Limited.”
The Council stated, “The assets of the listed companies are frozen. It is prohibited to directly or indirectly make funds or economic resources available to them or for their benefit.”
In November, the European Union condemned the escalating violence in the Darfur region of western Sudan and warned of the potential for another genocide, following a conflict that resulted in approximately 300,000 deaths and the displacement of over two million people between 2003 and 2008.
The confrontations have intensified despite international efforts to achieve a lasting ceasefire. The war has led to the displacement of over 7 million people and has triggered a severe humanitarian crisis.
The Council reaffirmed, “The European Union continues to be deeply concerned about the humanitarian situation in Sudan and reiterates its strong support and solidarity with the Sudanese people.”
The sanctions are a part of the European Union’s ongoing efforts to respond to the deteriorating situation in Sudan and to promote peace and stability in the region.