Germany closes embassy in South Sudan as tensions escalate
Germany has temporarily closed its embassy in South Sudan's capital Juba due to rising tensions that threaten to plunge the East African nation back into civil war. The German foreign ministry announced the closure on Saturday, citing concerns over the escalating violence and the potential for renewed conflict.
The decision follows the dismissal of the governor of Upper Nile state by President Salva Kiir. This move has exacerbated clashes between government troops and an ethnic militia, which Kiir accuses of aligning with his rival, First Vice President Riek Machar.
The current standoff has raised fears that South Sudan, the world's newest nation, could descend back into conflict just seven years after emerging from a brutal civil war that claimed hundreds of thousands of lives. The German foreign ministry expressed deep concern, stating that "after years of fragile peace, South Sudan is once again on the brink of civil war."
They further criticized President Kiir and Vice President Machar for plunging the country into a spiral of violence and urged them to end the senseless bloodshed and finally implement the peace agreement.
Nicholas Haysom, the United Nations peacekeeping chief in South Sudan, echoed these concerns, stating that the country is "on the brink of relapse into civil war." The international community is closely monitoring the situation and urging all parties to exercise restraint and engage in dialogue to prevent further escalation.
11 Comments
Noir Black
The people of South Sudan have already suffered too much. They deserve to live in a country that is peaceful and prosperous.
Eugene Alta
Both President Kiir and Vice President Machar are trying to do what they believe is best for their country. We should support their efforts to bring peace and stability to South Sudan.
BuggaBoom
Germany closing its embassy in South Sudan is a clear sign that the situation there is deteriorating rapidly. This is incredibly worrying, and the international community needs to do more to help prevent a return to civil war.
ZmeeLove
The ongoing violence in South Sudan is a tragedy. The world must not forget the people caught in the crossfire.
Habibi
The situation in South Sudan is not as bad as the media makes it out to be. There is still hope for peace.
Bella Ciao
The international community should focus on helping South Sudan rebuild its economy and infrastructure, not on imposing sanctions.
Comandante
It is outrageous that President Kiir and Vice President Machar are putting the lives of millions at risk for their own personal ambitions. They need to step down and allow for a peaceful transition of power.
Coccinella
We should not give up hope on South Sudan. With international support, the country can overcome its current challenges and build a brighter future.
Muchacha
President Kiir is a strong leader who is committed to peace. He will not let South Sudan descend back into civil war.
Habibi
It is shameful that the leaders of South Sudan are prioritizing their own power over the well-being of their people.
Muchacha
The people of South Sudan deserve a chance to rebuild their lives in peace. We should support their efforts.