U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, announced on Thursday that the United States is pledging $203 million to help prevent the crisis in Sudan from spreading further into the region.
The United Nations reports that nearly 9 million people have been displaced from their homes, with over 1 million fleeing the country. Thousands have been killed in the conflict, which has been overshadowed by other global crises in Gaza and Ukraine.
Thomas-Greenfield expressed hope that this new round of aid would inspire other nations to contribute. “Partners will use this funding to build new shelters for refugees, provide cash assistance for rent, and help children whose lives have been disrupted by the conflict return to school,” she said at a press briefing in New York.
She highlighted the dire conditions facing the Sudanese people, saying, “Three quarters of a million people, including women, children, the very old, and the very young, are facing famine and starvation, with many relying on dirt and tree leaves for nutrition.”
The conflict in Sudan, which began over a year ago, has forced tens of thousands to seek safety in neighbouring Chad.
The U.N. has requested $2.7 billion to address the humanitarian needs in Sudan but has only received $155 million, approximately 6% of the required funds.
Thomas-Greenfield called for international pressure on the warring parties to negotiate. “My call is for those who have influence on the warring parties to press them to come to the table. Until they do, the people of Sudan will continue to suffer. There is no military solution to this situation,” she stated.
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