The Embassies of Canada, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Norway, the United Kingdom, and the United States, along with the Delegation of the European Union, have issued a joint statement condemning an attack on a United Nations helicopter in Nasir County, Upper Nile State. The incident occurred on March 7 and resulted in the death of one crew member and serious injuries to two others.
The statement also criticized those who did not honor assurances for safe passage for South Sudanese military personnel that the helicopter was attempting to evacuate. The embassies and delegation extended their condolences to the families affected by this tragedy.
They urged transitional government leaders from SPLM-IG and SPLM-IO to engage in direct dialogue at a high level. The aim is to prevent further violence and ensure that leaders prioritize the welfare of South Sudan's citizens over political interests.