Source: United Nations (video statements)
Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations Jean-Pierre Lacroix said the security situation has deteriorated sharply. “Over the past three months, the developments in South Sudan continued to move in a negative and possibly dangerous direction. Ceasefire violations are on the increase — including widespread aerial bombardments and clashes between the signatories of the peace agreement.”
Lacroix stressed that “the Revitalized Peace Agreement remains the only viable framework for long term peace and stability in South Sudan,” but warned that preparations for the December 2026 elections lack urgency. “With time running out for credible planning, key electoral decisions must be made now, not later,” he said.
He also described a worsening humanitarian emergency. “More than 7.5 million people face acute food insecurity; 28,000 are at risk of famine,” he said. “Flooding has displaced over a million. Over 1.2 million returnees and refugees from Sudan have crossed into a country already struggling to feed its own.”
“Human suffering during this volatile situation continues to mount,” he added. “Conflict-related sexual violence, arbitrary detentions, and extrajudicial killings persist, with limited accountability. I urge all parties to immediately cease hostilities and recommit to the Cessation of Hostilities Agreement.”