Museveni, EU Delegation Discuss Escalating South Sudan Crisis Amid Regional Security Concerns

President Yoweri Museveni convened a crucial meeting with a delegation from the European Union Mission in Uganda, headed by Ambassador Jan Sadek, to address the rapidly deteriorating security situation in South Sudan and its implications for the wider Great Lakes region.

President Museveni, in a statement released via his official X (formerly Twitter) account, confirmed that the discussions centered on “several issues of security in the region and South Sudan.” He emphasized the significance of sustained cooperation between Uganda and the European Union in fostering peace and stability.

The meeting occurs against a backdrop of heightened tensions in South Sudan, jeopardizing the nation’s tenuous peace process. The recent house arrest of First Vice President Riek Machar by President Salva Kiir has triggered a resurgence of conflict fears. President Kiir accuses Machar of instigating rebellion, raising the specter of a return to the devastating 2013-2018 civil war.

African Union mediators have intervened, arriving in Juba earlier this month to facilitate dialogue aimed at averting a full-scale resumption of hostilities. The situation is further complicated by the United States’ recent decision to revoke visas of South Sudanese nationals, citing the nation’s refusal to accept repatriated citizens. This move has intensified diplomatic strains and raised concerns about its potential destabilizing effects.

The European Union has consistently played a vital role in supporting peace and governance initiatives in South Sudan. Ambassador Sadek’s meeting with President Museveni underscores the EU’s dedication to collaborating with regional leaders to address pressing security challenges and promote durable peace in South Sudan and the surrounding region.

The discussions highlight the urgent need for coordinated international efforts to prevent a descent into renewed conflict in South Sudan, which could have far-reaching consequences for the already fragile stability of the Great Lakes region.