Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State
As we begin a new year and observe the 68th anniversary of Sudan’s independence, we reflect on the continued suffering of the Sudanese people due to the needless conflict between the Rapid Support Force (RSF) and Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF). This conflict has resulted in war crimes, crimes against humanity, ethnic cleansing, grave food insecurity, widespread displacement, and a collapsing healthcare system. It has also dangerously deepened divisions in Sudan along ethnic, tribal, and regional lines.
A year ago, we welcomed a political process and joined the Sudanese people in hoping it could restore their democratic transition. Now, Sudan suffers from one of the world’s largest humanitarian and displacement crises because of the warring parties’ decisions. Sudan’s economy and infrastructure are in ruins. Many women and girls have been raped or live in terror of sexual violence amid lawlessness and impunity. The RSF and SAF must end this brutal war and return governance to civilians, as the Sudanese people have long demanded.
The United States continues to stand with the people of Sudan and will work to end the conflict so that in the coming year, the Sudanese people can begin to realize the peace, security, and prosperity they deserve.
Matthew Miller, Department Spokesperson
President Daniel Ortega and Vice President Rosario Murillo have unjustly incarcerated Bishop Rolando Álvarez for 500 days. During that time, Nicaraguan authorities have kept Bishop Álvarez in isolation, blocked independent evaluation of the conditions of his imprisonment, and released staged videos and photographs that only increase concerns about his well-being.
In addition to Bishop Álvarez, many religious leaders remain unjustly detained in Nicaragua, including fellow Bishop
We once again call on the Nicaraguan government to release Bishop Rolando Álvarez immediately and without conditions.
