General Abdelfattah al-Burhan, Sudan’s army chief, has rejected a U.S.-led peace proposal. He accused the United States of attempting to dismantle the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF). Al-Burhan believes the proposal aims to legitimize the Rapid Support Forces (RSF).
Al-Burhan, who is also the head of the Transitional Sovereign Council, addressed senior military officers in Khartoum. He declared the SAF will not compromise on the RSF’s withdrawal from occupied cities.
He criticized U.S. regional envoy Massad Fares Boulos, alleging bias and echoing RSF narratives.
Al-Burhan’s Rejection of the U.S. Proposal
Al-Burhan characterized the proposal presented by Boulos as the “worst yet.” The proposal was put forth by the “Quad,” comprising the United States, United Kingdom, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates.
Al-Burhan stated that any initiative that recognizes the RSF is unacceptable. He often refers to the RSF as the “Janjaweed” or the “RSF militia.”
Key Concerns Regarding Security and Territorial Control
The army chief claimed the latest draft proposed dissolving Sudan’s security services. He also stated that the draft would permit RSF units to remain in seized cities in Darfur and Kordofan states.
Al-Burhan reiterated the army’s demand for RSF withdrawal from captured areas. He warned that a truce without territorial changes would allow the RSF to regroup and consolidate gains.
He emphasized that a ceasefire must coincide with the RSF’s withdrawal from areas occupied after the Jeddah talks. This withdrawal is crucial before life can return to normal, he noted.
Allegations of Islamist Influence and Diplomatic Alignment
Al-Burhan refuted allegations that Islamist networks control the military. He dismissed these claims as a foreign-backed narrative intended to weaken the SAF. He affirmed that Sudanese officers alone would conduct any military restructuring, free from external influence.
The army chief urged international support for a Saudi-led diplomatic initiative. He argued it is vital to the stability of the Red Sea corridor.
JSAMF’s Stance on Truce Negotiations
The Joint Force of the Armed Struggle Movements (JSAMF) also issued a strong statement. The pro-SAF coalition rejected truce talks while the RSF occupies cities and allegedly commits atrocities.
JSAMF argues that discussing de-escalation while cities remain occupied is an attempt to legitimize violence. It allows the aggressor to reposition under the guise of peace.
The coalition asserts a true truce begins with the withdrawal of aggressor forces. It also demands civilian protection and accountability for crimes.
