The European Union is reportedly considering imposing sanctions on Abdelrahim Dagalo, the deputy commander of the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in Sudan, over alleged human rights abuses. According to European diplomats, EU foreign ministers are expected to discuss and potentially approve the sanctions during a meeting in Brussels this Thursday.
The proposed EU sanctions would likely include a travel ban to EU member states and the freezing of any assets held within the bloc. The move comes amid growing international concern over the ongoing conflict in Sudan and allegations of widespread human rights violations by both sides.
The RSF, led by Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, known as Hemedti, has been engaged in a protracted conflict with the Sudanese army since April 2023. The fighting has resulted in tens of thousands of deaths and the displacement of an estimated 13 million people. The recent capture of El Fasher, a major city in Sudan, by the RSF has raised fears of mass killings and other atrocities, including rape, looting, and destruction.
A commander within the Rapid Support Forces stated that investigations are underway and anyone found guilty of committing violations will be held accountable. However, the commander also claimed that reports of violations in El Fasher have been exaggerated by the army and its allies.
The United Nations has described the situation in Sudan as the world’s largest humanitarian crisis, occurring at a time when global aid budgets are shrinking. Several European sources have indicated a consensus within the EU to sanction Dagalo, who is the brother of RSF commander Hemedti.
Sources suggest the EU is adopting a phased approach to sanctions, aiming to maintain an open channel for dialogue. Last Tuesday, British Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper stated that London intends to impose sanctions due to human rights violations in Sudan, emphasizing the need for continued efforts to ensure a ceasefire.
