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U.S. Presidential Advisor: Sudan’s Solution Must Be Sudanese-Led

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Mr. Massad Paulus, Senior Advisor to the U.S. President for Arab and African Affairs, said in an interview with Al Jazeera Mubasher that the United States is closely monitoring developments in Sudan’s war, expressing cautious optimism that the conflict could end soon through a peaceful, Sudanese-led solution.

Paulus explained that the Rapid Support Forces’ (RSF) takeover of El Fasher marks a major military development, giving them control over the Darfur region and a stronger position in potential negotiations. However, he warned that this could pose serious risks to Sudan’s unity, raising fears of a Libya-like scenario.

He stressed that the humanitarian situation in Sudan is currently the worst in the world, noting that Washington continues to coordinate with international organizations to provide aid to civilians and displaced people.

On diplomatic efforts, Paulus said that the Quartet Group (Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Egypt, and the United States) is working to establish a three-month humanitarian truce, which both sides have initially welcomed. However, he emphasized that the RSF must take serious steps toward confidence-building and a permanent ceasefire.

Paulus clarified that no direct negotiations have yet taken place between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the RSF, but continuous indirect contacts have been ongoing for about four months to prepare the ground for talks at the right time.

He reaffirmed that the U.S. strongly rejects a military solution, insisting that dialogue and negotiation between Sudanese parties—with regional and international support—is the only viable path toward peace and stability.

Responding to questions about sanctions, Paulus said the United States has multiple options, including strong punitive measures against any party that continues fighting or commits violations, but that Washington prefers diplomatic and peaceful approaches.

Paulus concluded by saying that President Biden places great importance on the Sudan crisis, and that the United States remains committed to supporting international efforts to end the war and address the deepening humanitarian catastrophe.