U.S. Imposes Sanctions on Sudan Over Use of Chemical Weapons in Ongoing Conflict

Washington, USA — The United States government has announced sweeping sanctions against Sudan, citing the Sudanese military’s use of chemical weapons during its 2024 conflict with the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The move, disclosed on Thursday, May 22, marks a significant escalation in Washington’s response to the deteriorating humanitarian and security situation in Sudan.

The sanctions, mandated under the Chemical and Biological Weapons Control and Warfare Elimination Act, will include a ban on U.S. imports from Sudan, travel restrictions on Sudanese nationals, and the suspension of most U.S. assistance to Khartoum. The punitive measures are set to take effect on June 6, 2025, following their formal publication in the Federal Register.

U.S. State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce said the decision was based on “credible and corroborated evidence” that Sudanese government forces deployed chemical agents in battlefield operations against the RSF. “Such actions constitute a gross violation of international law and human rights. The United States cannot and will not ignore the use of banned toxins in armed conflict,” Bruce stated during a press briefing.

The announcement comes as Kenyan-led mediation efforts continue in an attempt to broker peace between the warring factions. However, tensions between Khartoum and Nairobi have escalated in recent months, particularly after Kenya hosted RSF leaders for exploratory talks. In retaliation, Sudan imposed a ban on Kenyan imports, further complicating regional diplomatic dynamics.

The U.S. sanctions underscore growing international alarm over Sudan’s internal conflict, which has displaced hundreds of thousands and triggered a deepening humanitarian crisis. Human rights organizations have applauded the move, urging other nations to follow suit in holding perpetrators accountable for war crimes.

Meanwhile, the Sudanese government has yet to issue a formal response to the U.S. sanctions or the allegations surrounding the use of chemical weapons.