Assistant Secretary Molly Phee’s Ongoing Diplomatic Efforts to Resolve the Crisis in Sudan
Assistant Secretary for African Affairs, Molly Phee, is actively engaged in diplomatic endeavors to address the crisis in Sudan. Starting from May 12, she will travel from Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, for meetings with the African Union, the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), and other African partners. The purpose of these discussions is to consult and coordinate next steps among regional and international stakeholders who are united in their efforts to help bring an end to the conflict in Sudan, in alignment with the African Union’s April 20 communique.
Assistant Secretary Phee has been leading a U.S. delegation in Jeddah since May 6, working closely with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Their primary objective is to facilitate pre-negotiation talks between representatives of the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces. The focus of these talks is to establish an effective short-term ceasefire, enabling the delivery of essential humanitarian assistance and the restoration of vital services. Notably, on May 11, the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces signed a Declaration of Commitment to Protect the Civilians of Sudan. This declaration recognizes the obligations of both parties under international humanitarian law and international human rights law, emphasizing the need to facilitate humanitarian action to address the urgent needs of civilians. Currently, discussions are underway regarding the implementation details of the short-term ceasefire. The ongoing talks in Jeddah are expected to address arrangements for future negotiations, following the agreed “step by step” approach.
The United States remains firmly committed to consulting and coordinating with regional and international partners who share the common goal of helping Sudan overcome this devastating conflict. The ultimate objective is to support the Sudanese people in establishing civilian governance as swiftly as possible, in line with their aspirations.