Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield addressed the UN Security Council regarding a report on Sudan released by the UN Panel of Experts. The report details severe atrocities, including attacks on civilians and infrastructure by RSF and allied militias. Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield highlighted specific sections from the report, quoting: “Schools, hospitals, markets, government buildings and humanitarian assets were looted mostly by RSF and allied militias and destroyed by shelling and bombing by the two warring parties.” She also mentioned reports of sexual violence: “Women and girls, some as young as 14 years old, were raped by RSF elements in World Food Program storage facilities controlled by RSF.”
The ambassador expressed concern over arms transfers fueling the conflict and emphasized that these must stop. Reflecting on her visit to Adré, Chad last fall, she described meeting refugees who had fled Sudan under dire circumstances.
She criticized the international community's insufficient response to alleviate suffering in Sudan. "The United States will continue to lead on all these fronts," she stated while urging more action from the African Union and East African leaders.
Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield also updated efforts to draft a Security Council resolution for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza. The draft supports diplomatic efforts for a six-week ceasefire alongside hostage releases.
During questions, Ibtisam Azem from Al-Araby Al-Jadeed Newspaper asked about potential U.S. support for a weapons embargo in Sudan. The ambassador responded that they have been clear with weapon suppliers to cease contributions that endanger Sudanese lives.
Another question raised concerns about perceived double standards regarding U.S. arms supplies to Israel amidst civilian casualties in Gaza. Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield differentiated between situations in Sudan and Israel's right to self-defense but emphasized Israel’s responsibility under international law.
Regarding Haiti, she discussed recent engagements with Prime Minister Ariel Henry at a CARICOM meeting about advancing political processes for security improvements.
Questions about extending ceasefires in Gaza were met with hope for longer-lasting solutions beyond initial agreements like those seen previously.
Finally, when asked if the U.S. requested Haitian Prime Minister Henry's resignation, Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield clarified their request was focused on progressing towards elections through a transitional council.