US Sanctions Target Colombian Mercenary Pipeline Fueling Sudan’s War

The United States has imposed new financial sanctions. The sanctions target a network recruiting Colombian fighters for Sudan’s civil war. The US Treasury Department announced the move on Tuesday, December 10.

This action aims to choke off a key foreign source of fighters for the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). It coincides with diplomatic calls by Secretary of State Marco Rubio to key Middle Eastern nations.

Network Details and Accusations of Brutality

The Treasury sanctioned four individuals and four entities. Officials say this network recruits former Colombian military personnel. It also trains soldiers, including children, for the RSF.

A retired Colombian officer based in the UAE is a central figure. Alvaro Andres Quijano Becerra is accused of playing a key recruitment role. The sanctions also hit an employment agency he co-founded and his wife.

A senior Treasury official condemned the RSF’s tactics. “The RSF has shown again and again that it is willing to target civilians including infants,” said John Hurley. His statement, covered by major news wires, linked the group’s brutality to regional destabilization.

Broader Diplomatic and Conflict Context

This sanction round occurs amid intensified fighting. The war between Sudan’s army and the RSF began in April 2023. It has killed tens of thousands and created a severe humanitarian crisis.

Concurrently, Secretary Rubio spoke with the foreign ministers of Egypt and Saudi Arabia. These calls focused on mediation efforts to end the conflict. Another regional power, the United Arab Emirates, faces widespread accusations of backing the RSF.

The UAE denies providing weapons or mercenary support. The US has not publicly condemned its partner. However, Rubio recently vowed to address concerns with any country supporting the RSF. In January, the State Department determined that RSF members committed genocide.

The new sanctions represent a direct attempt to dismantle one foreign pipeline of fighters into Sudan’s devastating conflict. Targeting the Colombian mercenary network highlights the international dimensions of a war with profound human costs.

A quick knowledge drop for you

Who exactly did the US sanction?

The US sanctioned four people and four companies. They are part of a network that recruits former Colombian soldiers. The main target is a retired officer living in the UAE.

Why are Colombian fighters involved in Sudan?

Colombian veterans are often sought as experienced mercenaries in global conflicts. Networks recruit them for their military training. They are then deployed to fight for paying factions, like the RSF.

What is the RSF accused of doing?

The RSF is accused of widespread atrocities against civilians. The US State Department has determined its members committed genocide. The group’s actions have deepened the humanitarian disaster in Sudan.

How is the UAE involved in this situation?

The UAE faces persistent allegations of providing material support to the RSF. It denies these claims. The sanctioned Colombian network figure operates from within the UAE.

What is the goal of these US sanctions?

The goal is to financially isolate the recruitment network. It aims to freeze its assets and disrupt its operations. This cuts off a source of foreign fighters for the RSF.