The United States is pressing for an immediate halt in fighting in Sudan to allow humanitarian aid to reach civilians before the new year, Secretary of State Marco Rubio said on Friday, as the war continues to drive famine and mass displacement.
Speaking at a news conference, Rubio said Washington’s priority is securing a pause in hostilities between Sudan’s army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces so relief groups can operate safely. He warned that continued foreign military support to both sides is prolonging the conflict.
Rubio said several countries are supplying weapons and equipment to the warring parties, including transfers that he said have benefited the Rapid Support Forces. He said the United States is actively engaging governments with influence over the conflict.
“We have had direct and appropriate conversations with everyone involved,” Rubio told reporters. “Without external backing, neither side could keep fighting, which is why engagement with those actors matters.”
He added that Washington believes regional players can help secure a humanitarian pause. Rubio said he had recently spoken with officials from the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt as part of that effort.
The war in Sudan erupted in April twenty twenty three following a power struggle between the army and the RSF. Since then, tens of thousands of people have been killed, entire communities have been uprooted, and reports of ethnic violence have multiplied, according to the United Nations and aid groups.
US President Donald Trump said last week that his administration would intervene to help end the conflict. Previous mediation efforts led by the United States and regional partners have so far failed, including a proposal submitted to both sides in September.
The UAE has repeatedly denied accusations that it is arming the RSF, despite claims from Sudanese officials and international observers.
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Sudan once again topped the International Rescue Committee’s global emergency watchlist this month, highlighting the scale of the crisis. Aid agencies say more than twelve million people have been displaced, with many fleeing violence after being robbed, assaulted, or losing family members.
Humanitarian workers say limited access, funding shortages, and ongoing fighting have made it increasingly difficult to deliver food, medical care, and shelter.
US officials say the coming weeks will be critical, with diplomatic efforts now centered on preventing further civilian suffering and keeping aid routes open as the conflict enters another year.