(KHARTOUM) – The European Union (EU) has imposed new sanctions on two senior Sudanese militia commanders and two commercial entities accused of sustaining the country’s ongoing war, as the conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) intensifies into its third year.
The EU Council said Thursday that the sanctions target Abu Aqla Mohamed Kaikal, a leader of the North Shield militia allied with the SAF, RSF field commander Hussein Barsham, Al-Khaleej Bank, and Red Rock Mining Company. The action follows increasing concern over the severe human rights violations and regional instability caused by the prolonged conflict.
Red Rock Mining Company, which has links to Sudan’s weapons and military vehicle production, was singled out for its strategic role in conflict zones. The EU said mining areas are often directly connected to areas of active fighting, making them high priority assets for both parties in the war. Red Rock’s parent firm is already under sanctions by the EU, the United States and the United Kingdom.
The financial sector was also highlighted as a critical pillar of the war economy. Al-Khaleej Bank, the EU stated, is largely controlled by business networks tied to RSF commander Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, known as Hemedti. The bank allegedly plays a central role in supporting RSF operations financially.
“The mining sector is of particular importance for fuelling the conflict in Sudan,” the EU Council stated. “Al-Khaleej Bank plays an essential role in financing RSF operations.”
Abu Aqla Mohamed Kaikal was formerly part of the RSF before rejoining the SAF in 2024 and becoming governor of Jazirah State. During his time as governor and militia leader, he was implicated in violence targeting the Kanabi, an historically marginalised group made up of Nuba and other African ethnic communities. The EU cited his role in armed campaigns and attacks on civilians in its justification for sanctions.
RSF commander Hussein Barsham was accused of overseeing operations responsible for ethnic massacres, forced displacement, and systematic violence in regions such as Darfur. The EU described him as “responsible for RSF operations that have resulted in mass atrocities,” including ethnic violence and targeted killings.
The restrictive measures imposed include asset freezes, a ban on financial or economic transactions with the named individuals and entities, and EU travel bans for the two commanders. The Council described the sanctions as part of a broader effort to hold war actors accountable and support the Sudanese people’s demand for peace.
“The imposition of these restrictive measures underlines the EU’s unwavering support for peace and accountability in Sudan,” the Council said in a statement.
It called for a return to an inclusive political process that reflects the aspirations of Sudan’s citizens.
The EU also reaffirmed its commitment to using all available diplomatic tools to push for an end to the conflict and address the deteriorating humanitarian situation.
For neighbouring South Sudan, the developments carry both political and economic significance. With its fragile peace process and deep ties to Sudan’s economy, further instability in Khartoum could affect regional dynamics, border trade and refugee flows.
