Guterres Calls for Immediate Ceasefire in Sudan, Backing African Peace Missions

Addis Ababa, October 7, 2025 (ENA)—United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has called for an immediate ceasefire in Sudan and stronger international backing for African led peace efforts, warning that failure to act risks deepening cycles of violence and displacement across the continent.

Addressing the crises in Africa, Guterres pressed the warring parties in Sudan to halt fighting without delay and return to negotiations.

“The parties must commit to an immediate cessation of hostilities and resume talks towards a lasting ceasefire and comprehensive, inclusive and Sudanese-owned political process in Sudan,” he noted.

On South Sudan, the premier cautioned against a relapse into conflict, urging the leaders to revive dialogue and uphold existing agreements.

In the Democratic Republic of the Congo, he stressed that commitments must be respected, beginning with an immediate ceasefire and full respect for the country’s territorial integrity.

The Secretary-General also highlighted the need for sustained stabilization efforts in the Central African Republic as well as across West Africa and the Sahel, regions facing persistent insecurity driven by armed groups and extremist violence.

In Libya, he said all actors must advance a Libyan-led political process, supported by the United Nations Support Mission.

Turning to Somalia, Guterres underscored the importance of reliable financing for the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission, describing it as central to consolidating security gains.

He expressed regret that the United Nations Security Council had failed to reach consensus on funding the mission through assessed contributions.

“Coordinated efforts are essential to end cycles of violence, terrorism and displacement, and sustained and predictable funding for the AU Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia is vital,” the Secretary-General said.

Guterres added that the United Nations is reviewing its peace operations to ensure mandates are realistic, properly sequenced and supported by clear transition strategies aimed at delivering stronger results on the ground.

“We are reviewing peace operations to ensure mandates are realistic, sequenced and well-resourced and supported by clear transition strategies,” he stated.