Sudan's Foreign Ministry strongly criticized a joint African Union (AU)-United Arab Emirates statement on January 7, 2026, calling it "misleading" and questioning its procedural legitimacy. The diplomatic clash comes amid ongoing efforts to resolve Sudan's protracted conflict.
The AU-UAE declaration issued January 6 following meetings in Addis Ababa urged an immediate humanitarian truce and civilian-led governance. Sudanese officials countered that the statement improperly equated the government with "terrorist-designated armed groups" and contradicted existing peace frameworks.
"This statement undermines Africa's principle of self-determination through established channels," read the ministry's response, emphasizing that 85% of Sudan's territory remains under government control. Authorities reiterated their commitment to conditional ceasefire talks through IGAD-led regional initiatives.
The dispute highlights growing tensions between Sudan and some international partners, with Khartoum accusing the UAE of overstepping its role as a non-AU member. Observers note the development could impact humanitarian access negotiations as food insecurity affects an estimated 18 million Sudanese.
