Türkiye urges concrete steps against RSF backers in Sudan

Türkiye's ambassador to Khartoum Fatih Yildiz warned on Saturday that recent drone attacks by the Rapid Support Forces in Sudan's El Obeid are threatening civilian life and deepening concerns over regional stability, urging the international community to move beyond statements and take concrete action against external actors backing the paramilitary group.

Calls for international action

Speaking to Anadolu Agency, Yildiz said attacks carried out in recent weeks using drones and other military assets have negatively affected civilian life in El Obeid, with the group's past actions amplifying fears about the current trajectory. "The international community should not be content with statements alone. Concrete steps must be taken to prevent the activities of external actors supporting the RSF," he said, stressing that while diplomatic calls remain important markers of concern, they prove insufficient without tangible measures to cut off external support. "What matters most is preventing the activities of external actors supporting the RSF. Unless this is achieved, risks will persist not only in El Obeid but in all areas where the RSF is present," he stated.

Reconstruction efforts

Touching on reconstruction efforts alongside the security situation, Yildiz noted that returns to the capital Khartoum accelerated after the city came back under government control in March 2025, with public institutions and civilians beginning to return and economic activity showing signs of revival. He said Khartoum's infrastructure has not yet reached a level capable of supporting its pre-war population, emphasizing that reconstruction will be among the country's most important priorities in the coming period, particularly as the nation spans approximately 1.8 million square kilometers and maintains a population of 35 million to 40 million despite displacement caused by the conflict. "We need Turkish businesspeople who know Sudan well. We are encouraging them to resume operations," Yildiz said, pointing to a Turkish factory producing cement and gypsum boards in southern Khartoum that has already restarted operations as an example of renewed commercial engagement.

Institutional cooperation

Yildiz stated that Ankara continues to maintain its presence in Sudan through various institutions, preserving pre-war ties and sharing with the Sudanese people a vision for rebuilding the country together through coordinated efforts involving the embassy, Turkish Airlines, TİKA and Ziraat Katılım Bankası. He noted that although clashes continue in some parts of Sudan, economic activity remains possible in much of the country, particularly in areas under army control, with the embassy and commercial counselor's office standing ready to support investors seeking opportunities in production and employment sectors. Commenting on growing security cooperation between the two countries, Yildiz said the relationship reflects longstanding ties and is expected to evolve from supply-based support into a more strategic partnership with Sudan's legitimate government.