South Sudan VP Accuses Uganda of Breaking Weapons Ban & Attacking Civilians
Simple breakdown of the crisis:
The Accusation: South Sudan’s Vice President Riek Machar says Uganda sent soldiers and warplanes into his country, breaking a UN weapons ban. He claims Uganda’s airstrikes are killing civilians.
Uganda’s Defense: Uganda admits sending troops but says South Sudan’s government asked for help. Tensions rose after Machar’s allies were arrested in March.
Danger of War: The UN warns hate speech could restart South Sudan’s ethnic war (2013-2018). Uganda fears chaos could send refugees flooding across its border.
Deleted Threat: Uganda’s army chief posted (then deleted) shocking messages saying, “I’m tired of killing Nuer” (Machar’s ethnic group) and told Machar to “kneel before Kiir.”
Why This Matters:
- Broken Peace Deal: Machar says Uganda’s actions violate the 2018 agreement that stopped South Sudan’s civil war.
- Power Struggle: Machar (ethnic Nuer) and President Kiir (ethnic Dinka) have fought for years. Their feud risks dragging in neighbors.
- Reuters Coverage: Thanks to Reuters for uncovering Machar’s letter to the UN and tracking Uganda’s military moves.
Big Questions:
- Is Uganda helping South Sudan’s government—or picking sides in a hidden war?
- Will the UN act to stop more violence?
Source: Reuters