Hundreds of thousands of people have been killed in Sudan, 13 million have been displaced, and 19 million are facing acute starvation. Using satellite imagery, leaked documents, and on-the-ground footage, a new video explainer traces how weapons are moving into Sudan through a covert supply chain linked to the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The UK is accused of being complicit in the atrocities, choosing its relationship with the UAE over its responsibility towards Sudanese civilians.
UK Minister Responds to Accusations
The UK minister for development, Jenny Chapman, stated: 'Claims that the UK failed to act on warnings of mass atrocities are wrong. For many months, the UK led efforts at the United Nations and through direct diplomatic engagement to press all parties to de-escalate the violence. We have been clear and consistent: the atrocities committed by the RSF are abhorrent and must never be repeated. Both parties must comply with international humanitarian law, those responsible for violations must be held accountable, and all external support to armed actors fuelling this conflict must end immediately.'
UAE Denies Involvement
The UAE has repeatedly denied that it funds or arms the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). However, evidence gathered by investigators suggests a covert supply chain that funnels weapons from the UAE into Sudan, bypassing international sanctions and arms embargoes. The UK's role, according to critics, has been to turn a blind eye to these activities in order to maintain strong diplomatic and economic ties with the UAE.
Impact of the Conflict
The conflict in Sudan, which began in April 2023 between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the RSF, has led to one of the world's worst humanitarian crises. Over 13 million people have been forced to flee their homes, and 19 million are facing acute food shortages. The UN and other international organizations have repeatedly called for an end to external support for the warring parties, but the flow of weapons continues.
