Ukrainian Special Forces Take Action against Russian-backed Militants in Sudan – Sky Bulletin

In efforts to mitigate the influence of Russian-backed forces in Sudan, Ukrainian commandos have reportedly engaged in direct combat within the nation, according to a recent article by the Wall Street Journal published on March 6. The report references Ukrainian and Sudanese military officials who have chosen to remain anonymous.

The involvement of Russia in Sudan and other African nations is facilitated through groups such as the Wagner Group, which aid authoritarian regimes, contribute to regional instability, and exploit resources to finance Russia’s military campaign in Ukraine.

Other media outlets have similarly suggested Ukrainian special forces’ participation in Sudanese skirmishes, targeting the militants supported by the Wagner Group.

General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, Sudan’s leader, reportedly requested military support from Ukraine during conflicts in the summer of 2023, as he faced challenges from hostile factions. Civil warfare between Burhan’s military and the Rapid Support Forces erupted in April 2023.

Ukraine’s response was partly in an effort to counteract Russian influence but also due to Burhan’s purported clandestine provision of arms to Ukraine post the 2022 invasion by Russia, as stated by the WSJ.

The WSJ article details that Ukrainian operatives arrived in Sudan in mid-August 2023, participated in strategic operations to drive rebels away from Khartoum, and supplied the local guards with modernized weaponry, gadgets, and training. It was also noted that the Ukrainian forces experienced no losses during their deployment in Sudan.

While Kyiv has refrained from officially confirming its military operations in Sudan, such actions might complicate relations with important allies such as the United States. The US has condemned both the Sudanese government and rebels for alleged war crimes and dissuaded any military aid to these parties.

A notable interaction between President Zelensky of Ukraine and General Burhan took place unexpectedly at Shannon Airport, Ireland, in September 2023, where they reportedly discussed security concerns and the presence of Russian-aligned forces on Sudanese soil.

In a related context, an international research team reported that Russia laundered upwards of $2.5 billion worth of African gold since the initiation of its increased aggression in Ukraine, which began in February 2022.

Why are Ukrainian commandos in Sudan?

According to reports, they are assisting the local leadership in countering the influence of Russian-backed rebel forces, specifically those supported by the Wagner Group.

Has Ukraine officially acknowledged its involvement in Sudan?

No, Ukraine has not officially confirmed its troops’ participation in the conflict.

What are the implications of Ukrainian involvement in Sudan?

There could be potential diplomatic repercussions, especially concerning relations with the United States, which has discouraged military support to either side due to allegations of war crimes.

Did General Burhan assist Ukraine with weapons supply?

According to the Wall Street Journal, Burhan had been covertly sending weapons to Ukraine since shortly after Russia’s invasion in 2022.

The involvement of Ukrainian commandos in the Sudanese conflict highlights the complexities of international relations and the ongoing struggle against Russian influence outside of Eastern Europe. While the exact details and potential geopolitical consequences of Ukraine’s involvement remain a subject of speculation, it is clear that regional stability and the broader dynamics of international alliances continue to be challenged by the actions of state-sponsored private military groups. The situation in Sudan, much like others, is a testament to the global reach of the Ukrainian crisis and its intertwined nature with global power politics.