SUDAN NEWS ALERT: Sudan Tribune – Sudanese diplomat confirms commitment to Russian naval base on Red Sea

1/6/2024: Sudan Tribune – Sudanese diplomat confirms commitment to Russian naval base on Red Sea

Sudan Tribune report that Sudan’s Ambassador to Russia, Mohamed Siraj, reaffirmed Sudan’s dedication to constructing a Russian naval base on the Red Sea.

Sudan previously delayed implementing the agreement citing the need for ratification by an elected parliament but the external support for the Rapid Support militia (RSF) prompted the military-led government to reconsider its position.

Saudi Arabia had pressed Sudan to not allow the establishment of a Russian base on the other side of the Red Sea, but it is believed that the inability or unwillingness of Washington and Riyadh to persuade their regional allies to cease support for the RSF drove the government to seek assistance from Iran and Russia to acquire necessary weapons.

The Sudanese Congress Party opposes the Russian military base arguing that the “Port Sudan” government lacks legitimacy, the base jeopardises Sudan’s sovereignty, and contradicts the principle of maintaining a balanced foreign policy.