US push to expand Sudan arms embargo blocked by Russia, China

The UN Security Council voted Thursday unanimously to extend an arms embargo on Sudan's Darfur region until December 11, after opposition from Russia, China, and other members prevented agreement on a US proposal to expand restrictions nationwide in an effort to curb the country's civil war.The 15-member council adopted Resolution 2830, preserving existing sanctions while allowing further negotiations. It also extended the mandate of the UN panel monitoring the sanctions until January 11, 2027.Washington wants the embargo extended to all of Sudan, covering both the Sudanese Armed Forces and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces, which have been fighting since April 2023.The American proposal would also strengthen restrictions on drones, military equipment, and networks supplying weapons to the warring parties.More restrictions could undermine Sudan's SovereigntyRussia and China oppose broadening the measures, arguing that additional restrictions could undermine Sudan's sovereignty and worsen instability.