The clashes resulted in casualties and injuries on both sides, with thousands of civilians fleeing to forests, schools, and places of worship. The General Command of the Army in South Sudan confirmed that forces from both sides unexpectedly exchanged fire. The Chief of Staff in Juba has initiated urgent communications with his Ugandan counterpart to contain the escalation and determine its circumstances.
This tension follows months after Uganda announced in March the deployment of special forces within South Sudanese territory, a move observers described as part of ongoing military support for President Salva Kiir Mayardit since the outbreak of the civil war in 2013.
Recently, the Ugandan President held talks with South Sudanese President Salva Kiir in the capital Juba regarding the latest developments in South Sudan following the detention of Vice President Riek Machar, amid regional concerns over the potential resurgence of civil war in South Sudan. Museveni stated that discussions with President Salva Kiir would address issues related to the current political situation in the country, emphasizing his anticipation of fruitful discussions that contribute to strengthening the relations between the two countries, with a focus on stability and sustainable development.
South Sudan is experiencing tense conditions following the detention of Vice President Riek Machar, as leaders strive to defuse tensions before matters escalate into a new civil war.
