U.S. Evacuates Non-Emergency Staff from South Sudan Amid Growing Conflict

The United States has ordered all non-emergency staff to evacuate South Sudan amidst rising tensions that threaten a fragile power-sharing agreement between President Kiir and Vice President Machar. Recent attacks, including on UN personnel, indicate a deteriorating security situation. International watchdogs are warning of a potential return to civil war and large-scale ethnic violence.

On March 9, 2025, the United States government mandated the evacuation of all non-emergency personnel from South Sudan, driven by escalating tensions within the country. This directive from the State Department reflects growing international apprehension regarding the situation on the ground, particularly related to a fragile power-sharing agreement between President Salva Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar.

Recent clashes among allied forces in the Upper Nile State of northeastern South Sudan have exacerbated political instability. Notably, a United Nations helicopter came under attack during a rescue operation on Friday, resulting in the death of a crew member alongside an army general, as reported by the UN.

The State Department noted, “Due to the risks in the country, on March 8, 2025, the Department of State ordered the departure of non-emergency US government employees from South Sudan.” This situation is characterized by ongoing armed conflict that involves various political and ethnic factions, with arms readily accessible to the public.

Since achieving independence, South Sudan has struggled with internal strife. The civil war that lasted five years concluded in 2018 with a power-sharing agreement between Kiir and Machar. However, accusations from Kiir’s allies that Machar’s forces instigated instability in Nasir County—allegedly in collusion with the ethnically aligned White Army—have aggravated tensions further.

Despite a call for peace from President Kiir, who assured citizens that there would be no return to war, international observers have raised urgent concerns. The UN human rights commission has warned of an “alarming regression” that jeopardizes peace efforts, while the International Crisis Group cautioned that South Sudan is swiftly descending into a full-scale conflict, risking potential ethnic massacres without prompt intervention.

The recent decision by the U.S. to withdraw non-emergency staff underscores the seriousness of the escalating conflict in South Sudan. The fragility of the power-sharing agreement between President Kiir and Vice President Machar is evident as armed confrontations continue, prompting fears of a renewed civil war and significant humanitarian crises. The international community must closely monitor the situation to prevent further unrest.

Original Source: www.thehindu.com