US sanctions Sudan's RSF leader over genocide claims but critics say it is not enough
The United States has determined that Sudan's Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have "committed genocide" in Sudan and has imposed sanctions on the paramilitary group's leader. While conflict resolution NGOs have welcomed the decision, many organisations and analysts fear that the move may be 'too little, too late.'
The announcement was made on Tuesday and deals a setback to the RSF's efforts to improve its image and assert its legitimacy, including attempts to establish a civilian government.
The paramilitary group aims to expand its territory beyond the area it currently controls, which amouts to about half the country.
Secretary of State Antony Blinken said the determination was based on information about the RSF's systematic murder of men and boys and the targeted rape of women and girls from certain ethnic groups.
"The United States is committed to holding accountable those responsible," Blinken said. He also announced sanctions against RSF leader Mohammad Hamdan Daglo, known as Hemedti, for his role in what he describes as systematic atrocities committed against the Sudanese people.
Avaaz, Refugees International, and other NGOs welcomed the decision.
The genocide determination will substantially impact the RSF's ability to continue fighting, Mohammed Suliman, a Sudanese researcher and writer based in Boston, told Avaaz, particularly given the Emirati lobby's efforts to neutralise US involvement in the Sudanese conflict.
