Norway Closes Embassy in Juba, Operates from Nairobi Amid Rising Tensions

Norway has temporarily closed its embassy in Juba, South Sudan, due to a deteriorating security situation amid escalating violence between government forces and an ethnic militia. This decision follows the dismissal of the governor of Upper Nile by President Salva Kiir, who accused the militia of supporting his rival, First Vice President Riek Machar. Norway's embassy operations will shift to Nairobi, Kenya, until conditions allow for reopening in Juba. The move highlights the increasing risks faced by diplomatic missions in unstable regions, with Norway advising its citizens to leave South Sudan. Similar actions have been taken by Germany and the United States, which have also evacuated personnel due to ongoing armed conflicts in the country. Diplomatic representatives from multiple nations are exploring mediation efforts to prevent further escalation of violence.