Biden threatens more sanctions against South Sudan spoilers

JUBA – The American government is willing to impose more sanctions on those impeding the implementation of South Sudan’s revitalized peace agreement and those responsible for attacks on humanitarian workers, US Deputy Representative to UN, Amb. Richard Mills, said Wednesday.

United States is one of a few South Sudanese friends providing millions of dollars in assistance to the war-affected South Sudanese, but rampant insecurity characterized by attacks on aid workers has made it difficult for humanitarian community to facilitate successful delivery of that assistance.

Speaking before the United Nations Security Council today, Ambassador Mills said humanitarian aid worth $1 million has been looted or burned and humanitarian workers being killed which he said makes it difficult for the aid workers to deliver assistance.

“More than $1 million-worth of humanitarian supplies badly needed by the South Sudanese people have been looted or burned. The continuous looting, threats, violent attacks against humanitarian actors have led to the suspension of operations by numerous humanitarian agencies and a reduction of lifesaving assistance to vulnerable citizens,” Ambassador Mills said.

While reiterating United States government’s commitment to continue the support of the people of South Sudan during these hard times, the American diplomat warned that those behind the attacks against aid workers may be subject to sanctions.

“We note those attacking humanitarian personnel may be subject to sanction measures,” Ambassador Mills warned.

“..the United States remains committed to the people of South Sudan and to working closely with the transitional government, our fellow members of the Council, and all stakeholders to enable peace and prosperity for South Sudan and the region,” he added.