Investigations Underway Following Downing of Russian Plane in Darfur

Conflicts Nia Simpson October 22, 2024

Investigations Underway Following Downing of Russian Plane in Darfur

The Russian embassy is investigating the downing of a cargo plane with a Russian crew in Sudan’s Darfur, allegedly by the RSF. The unverified reports indicate that all crew members perished, with claims of involvement by the Egyptian military denied by Egypt. The ongoing Sudanese conflict, which has resulted in significant casualties and humanitarian crises, continues to escalate, especially in urban areas. Diplomatic initiatives have so far failed to resolve hostilities between the opposing forces.

The Russian embassy in Sudan is currently investigating reports of a cargo plane with a Russian crew being shot down in the conflict-ridden region of Darfur. This aircraft, a Russian-made Ilyushin Il-76, was reportedly tasked with delivering supplies to the army-controlled city of el-Fasher. On the other hand, the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) claimed responsibility for bringing down a plane it alleged was operated by the Egyptian military, accused of bombing civilians, although the aircraft in question was identified as an Antonov. Egypt has firmly denied assertions of its military involvement in support of Sudan’s army amidst the ongoing civil conflict. The power struggle between the Sudanese army and the RSF commenced in April 2023, escalating into what the United Nations has classified as one of the gravest humanitarian crises globally, with estimates of casualties reaching up to 150,000 since the conflict’s onset, based on statements made by U.S. special envoy for Sudan, Tom Perriello. Additionally, the UN reports that more than 10 million individuals, approximately one-fifth of the population, have been displaced due to the hostilities. Details concerning the circumstances of the crash remain unclear. The Russian embassy in Khartoum is collaborating with the military-led government to gather more information. Reports suggest that all crew members onboard, which included two Russians and three Sudan nationals, lost their lives during the incident. Allegedly, the plane went down in the Malha area, close to the Chad border, while en route to el-Fasher, the only city in the western Darfur region still under army control and increasingly targeted since April. The RSF claims to possess the aircraft’s black box and related documents, while viral footage from the scene reveals RSF soldiers with Russian identification materials alongside the wreckage. Speculations surrounding the cause of the crash suggest either a technical failure or an intentional shootdown, as both conflicting parties assert the aircraft was downed. Additional evidence points toward potential confusion involving an airline previously associated with the United Arab Emirates (UAE), with the UAE denying allegations of military support for the RSF. Furthermore, diplomatic endeavors aimed at halting hostilities between the factions have proven unsuccessful, with recent confrontations intensifying around Khartoum, predominantly under RSF control, causing the military to escalate airstrikes in urban centers and southern areas of the city.

The conflict in Sudan initiated in April 2023, characterized by a violent struggle for power between the national army and the RSF. The ensuing turmoil has resulted in significant casualties and displacement, eliciting responses from international entities regarding the humanitarian situation. Military engagements have escalated, particularly in urban areas, as both factions vie for control, further complicating efforts aimed at re-establishing peace through diplomacy. Recent incidents involving aircraft reflect the broader complexities of foreign involvement in the conflict, accentuating the precariousness of the situation in Sudan.

The reported downing of a Russian cargo plane in Darfur amid the Sudanese civil war raises critical concerns about the ongoing conflict’s dynamics and the involvement of foreign entities. With substantial human tolls and widespread displacement, the need for effective diplomatic negotiations remains paramount amidst the prevailing violence. As investigations into the incident proceed, further insights into the conflict and the roles of external nations may emerge, influencing the broader geopolitical landscape in the region.

Original Source: www.bbc.com