Sudan has accused neighboring Ethiopia of backing a paramilitary offensive that led to the capture of a strategic border town, intensifying tensions in an already devastating war.
Sudanese authorities said Wednesday that the Rapid Support Forces, alongside allied groups, seized control of Kurmuk, a key town near the Ethiopian border in Blue Nile state.
The development follows an announcement by RSF on Tuesday claiming it had taken the town and nearby areas after what it described as fierce fighting.
The ongoing war between RSF and Sudan army, which erupted in April 2023, has killed tens of thousands and displaced about 11 million people. The conflict has also triggered one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises, according to international agencies.
Blue Nile state remains a contested region, with parts under the control of the army and others held by factions allied with RSF.
Sudan accuses Ethiopia of involvement
Abdelatty al-Faki, governor of Kurmuk province, alleged that the offensive originated from Ethiopian territory.
“The forces that attacked Kurmuk set out from inside Ethiopian territory and are supported by Ethiopia,” he said while speaking from Damazin, the state capital.
He described the situation as an “invasion,” marking one of the strongest accusations yet by Sudanese officials against Ethiopia.
This is not the first time Sudan army-aligned authorities have made such claims. Earlier this month, the army accused forces of launching drone attacks from inside Ethiopia, suggesting cross-border involvement.
Ethiopia has consistently denied allegations that it supports RSF or allows its territory to be used as a base for operations.
The fighting has forced hundreds of civilians to flee their homes in Kurmuk and surrounding areas.
Faki said at least 433 families had arrived in Damazin, while others remain stranded between conflict zones. Some civilians have reportedly crossed into Ethiopia in search of safety.
Humanitarian groups warn that access to affected areas remains limited, making it difficult to deliver aid to those in need.
The worsening displacement adds to an already severe humanitarian situation across Sudan, where millions face shortages of food, water and medical supplies.
Rising tensions in the region
The capture of Kurmuk highlights the shifting dynamics of the conflict and raises concerns about broader regional instability.
Sources cited by AFP previously reported that thousands of RSF fighters entered Ethiopia last year, though Ethiopian authorities have denied harboring armed groups.
Analysts warn that continued accusations between Sudan and Ethiopia could further strain relations and destabilize the Horn of Africa.
As fighting continues, the situation in Blue Nile state remains volatile, with civilians bearing the brunt of the conflict.
