Kathmandu— A United Nations-backed report released on Thursday details how transnational entities operating across several countries have recruited, trained, and deployed foreign personnel to support both sides of Sudan's civil war. The report highlights the use of foreign-supplied drones by the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), which has led to significant civilian casualties and destruction of infrastructure since April 2023.

Impact on Civilians

The report documents grave human rights violations and international crimes, including conduct displaying hallmarks of genocide. External support for the RSF has enabled operations in Zamzam camp and el-Fasher, where numerous civilian casualties were reported. The use of drones by both sides has resulted in devastating attacks on civilians and infrastructure, such as a strike in Ad-Da’ein that killed at least 70 people and destroyed a major hospital.

Foreign Fighters and Networks

The investigation found up to 2,000 former Colombian military contractors operating combat drones, artillery, and advanced weapons alongside RSF units in Darfur and Kordofan. Witnesses also reported fighters from South Sudan, Chad, and Ethiopia serving in frontline roles. Private entities and intermediaries used transit locations in Chad, Libya, and Somalia to facilitate the delivery of personnel, training, weapons, and logistics to the RSF.

International Reactions

The Colombian government stated its opposition to mercenarism and is taking steps to address the participation of its nationals in foreign conflicts. The UAE rejected allegations of providing support to the RSF, while Chad maintained neutrality. Somalia's government said it takes the report’s allegations seriously.

The UN mission has urged states to halt illicit supply networks and enforce the UN arms embargo to prevent further civilian casualties and humanitarian crises.

(With inputs from Al Jazeera)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.