US Urges South Sudan Leaders to End Violence and Uphold Peacecommitments at UN Security Council Briefing

New York, August 18, 2025 — At a UN Security Council briefing, Acting U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, Dorothy Shea, delivered a stern warning to the leadership of South Sudan regarding the country’s ongoing conflict and failure to implement peace agreements.

In her remarks, Ambassador Shea expressed deep disappointment that the transitional government has yet to deliver the stability and peace that the South Sudanese people deserve. She highlighted that despite extensive international efforts to support recovery and reconciliation, South Sudan’s leaders have not displayed the political will necessary to meet key commitments, including integrating armed forces, ensuring transparent use of public revenue, and ending violence as a political tool.

Shea criticized recent actions by South Sudanese leadership for signaling a de facto abandonment of the 2018 peace agreement. She pointed out that key figures, such as First Vice President Machar, are under house arrest or detained, and ongoing military strikes continue to displace civilians and destroy infrastructure. The situation, she emphasized, is unacceptable and undermines efforts toward lasting peace.

Recent violence in regions like Upper Nile and Jonglei has displaced hundreds of thousands and resulted in numerous civilian casualties, including women and children suffering sexual violence, and others being forcibly recruited into armed groups. More than 132,000 refugees have fled to neighboring countries, further destabilizing the region.

Ambassador Shea stressed that the worsening conflict has exacerbated a humanitarian crisis, with over 70% of the population in need of aid. Humanitarian efforts are being systematically impeded through conflict, corruption, and violence against aid workers, compounding suffering across the country.

She called on all parties to immediately cease hostilities, release detained political prisoners, and recommit to dialogue to prevent further violence. She reiterated the importance of the transitional government engaging in good-faith negotiations with UNMISS to enable the mission’s full mandate to be carried out effectively.

The United States remains committed to supporting peace in South Sudan and called for renewed efforts from its leadership to restore stability and prevent a return to civil war. Shea concluded her remarks by thanking UNMISS personnel for their ongoing service amidst challenging circumstances.