Sudanese Foreign Minister Ali Youssef indicated that the conflict in Sudan will continue during Ramadan, emphasizing Sudan’s right to procure weapons from any country, including those under sanctions. He clarified that an agreement with Russia is for a service area, not a naval base, and asserted the nation’s autonomy in military dealings despite international pressures.
In a recent interview on BBC Arabic TV, Sudanese Foreign Minister Ali Youssef affirmed that the conflict in Sudan will persist through the month of Ramadan, which he referred to as “the month of war” in Islamic tradition. Youssef clarified that an agreement with Russia, established during President Bashir’s administration, is not for a navy base but rather for a service area for military vessels at the Red Sea. He emphasized Sudan’s desire to maintain sovereignty without becoming a colony of any nation.
Youssef discussed the impact of Western and American sanctions on Sudan’s military capabilities, explaining the inability to procure weaponry from those countries. He criticized the expectation for the Sudanese army to surrender and affirmed that Sudan’s arms acquisition may involve countries that do not impose sanctions. He reiterated the right of Sudan to procure weapons from any nation willing to sell.
Responding to inquiries about potential arrangements with Ukraine and Iran, he stated, “We have the right to import weapons from anyone willing to sell us. We buy weapons.” Youssef dismissed concerns regarding a constant Russian military presence in Sudan, likening it to other nations that maintain military bases abroad. He asserted that military assistance from Ukrainian fighters is unfounded, emphasizing Sudan’s autonomy in foreign relations and defense procurements.
When questioned about the potential for Sudan to serve as a battleground in the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, Youssef firmly stated, “It did not and it will not.” He concluded by stressing that external pressures do not dictate Sudan’s arms dealings, stating, “Neither the BBC, nor Britain, or anyone else can prevent us from buying weapons.”
The interview with Sudanese Foreign Minister Ali Youssef highlights Sudan’s determination to remain independent while navigating its military procurement amidst international sanctions. Youssef’s remarks affirm the nation’s resolve to acquire weapons from any willing seller, reinforcing its stance against perceived external control. The ongoing conflict and regional dynamics indicate a complex and evolving geopolitical landscape for Sudan.
Original Source: www.memri.org
