Sudan Army Kills Numerous Ukrainian Mercenaries Supporting RSF Rebels in Darfur Clashes

The Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) have reported killing a significant number of foreign fighters, including Ukrainian and Colombian mercenaries, who were supporting the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in Darfur's North Darfur region, particularly around the besieged city of El Fasher. These mercenaries reportedly included drone engineers and snipers who attempted to infiltrate city neighborhoods and take strategic positions, but were repelled by a special operation led by the SAF's 6th Infantry Division. The conflict stems from a power struggle between SAF chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and RSF commander Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, ongoing since April 2023, disrupting Sudan's transition to civilian rule and causing a severe humanitarian crisis. Sudanese officials have accused Ukraine of supplying arms and backing the RSF, with some governments in the Sahel region alleging Ukrainian involvement in supporting armed groups linked to terrorism. The RSF also received support from other foreign entities, including alleged backing from the United Arab Emirates, as Sudanese forces continue efforts to regain control amid intense fighting and displacement. These developments highlight the complex international dimensions of the Sudanese conflict and the ongoing violence in Darfur.