Sudan must solve issues without outside interference, Zakharova tells Arab News

MOSCOW: Russia called on both sides of the conflict in Sudan to agree to a permanent ceasefire and resolve their differences through negotiation, Russian Foreign Ministry representative Maria Zakharova told Arab News, adding that the Sudanese people should be able to fix their own problems without external interference.

“The dramatic events taking place in Sudan cause us serious concern,” said Zakharova. “We call on both parties of the conflict to show political will, restraint and take urgent steps towards a ceasefire. 

“We proceed from the fact that any differences can be settled through negotiations. And the main thing is to let the Sudanese solve their own problems without interference from outside.”

According to Zakharova, Russia is making all necessary efforts “to ensure the safety of Russian citizens” currently in Sudan, with Moscow in constant contact with all relevant countries, including Saudi Arabia, in order to coordinate and carry out evacuations of foreign nationals in need of assistance.

Zakharova also responded to questions about allegations made by US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken that the Russian-based paramilitary Wagner Group would bring “death and destruction” were it to engage in Sudan.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov told a news conference at the UN on April 25 that Sudan had the right to make use of the private military company if it chose to do so.

Zakharova drew attention to Lavrov’s recent statement, but highlighted Moscow’s non-involvement with the dramatic events in Sudan.

“As for the topic of Russian interference, in particular Blinken’s statement, which you cite, Minister Lavrov commented on it in New York on April 25,” she told Arab News.

“Our position is clear — every country is free to choose those legal measures that will protect its interests and security.”