US sanctions target Russian-based firm over instability in Sudan

Washington — The US on Thursday imposed sanctions on a former Sudanese official and two companies, including one based in Russia, that it accused of worsening instability in Sudan as fighting has killed thousands and displaced millions of civilians.

The action is the latest round of sanctions imposed by Washington after war between the army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) broke out in mid-April over plans for a political transition and the integration of the RSF into the army, four years after long-time ruler Omar al-Bashir was overthrown in a popular uprising.

“Today’s action holds accountable those who have undercut efforts to find a peaceful, democratic solution in Sudan,” the Treasury department’s under-secretary for terrorism and financial intelligence, Brian Nelson, said in a statement.

“We will continue to target actors perpetuating this conflict for personal gain.”

The Treasury department said it targeted Ali Karti, the foreign minister under Bashir, and became leader of the Sudanese Islamic Movement after Bashir was toppled in 2019.

He is a prominent figure among loyalists and veterans of Bashir’s Islamist rule who have manoeuvred to protect their interests and regained some leverage after a 2021 coup by the army and the RSF.

Also hit with sanctions was GSK Advance Company, a Sudan-based company the department said has been used as a procurement channel for the RSF.

GSK worked with Russian-based military supply company Aviatrade, also targeted on Thursday, to arrange the procurement of parts and supplies, as well as training, for drones previously purchased by the RSF, the Treasury said.

Reuters