Special Representative of the Russian President for the Middle East and African Countries, Deputy Foreign Minister of the Russian Federation Mikhail Bogdanov, discussed the resolution of the Sudanese crisis with the Minister of Finance and Economic Planning of Sudan, leader of the Justice and Equality Movement Gibril Ibrahim, the Russian Foreign Ministry reported.
"Russia confirmed its principled position regarding the need for an early cessation of hostilities between units of the regular army and the Rapid Support Forces and the establishment of an inclusive inter-Sudanese dialogue in the interests of ensuring unity, territorial integrity and sovereignty," said Bogdanov.
As Russia's foreign ministry added, the diplomats also discussed further development of traditionally friendly bilateral ties, including promising areas of mutually beneficial trade and economic cooperation.
In early January, a meeting was held in the Ethiopian capital, Addis Ababa, between the Coordination of Civilian Democratic Forces (known as Taqadum and led by former Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok) and RSF leader Mohammed Hamdan Dagalo. It resulted in the signing of a joint statement, in which the RSF agreed to an immediate and unconditional cessation of hostilities as the foundation for a peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict.
However, a few days later, the commander of the Sudanese Armed Forces, Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, announced his rejection of the agreement, emphasizing that the army will continue to fight.
The clashes led to the deterioration of the humanitarian and health situation in the northeastern African country. The conflict has resulted in many civilian deaths and the displacement of millions of Sudanese inside and outside the country.