Sudanese Foreign Minister Defends Arms Acquisition and Russia Agreement

Sudanese Foreign Minister Ali Youssef confirmed ongoing conflicts during Ramadan and defended Sudan’s arms procurement strategy. He clarified that the Russia-Sudan agreement pertains to a service area for ships, not a naval base, emphasizing Sudan’s independence and right to acquire weapons from any willing seller, particularly amidst Western sanctions.

In a recent interview on March 2, 2025, with BBC Arabic TV, Sudanese Foreign Minister Ali Youssef addressed ongoing conflicts in Sudan, characterizing the month of Ramadan as a time of war. When probed about Sudan’s relationship with Russia regarding military infrastructure, he clarified that the agreement established during President Bashir’s era pertains to a service area for ships rather than a naval base. Youssef affirmed that Sudan values its independence and maintains amicable ties with both Russia and European nations.

Youssef discussed the limitations imposed on Sudan by Western and American sanctions, which obstruct the acquisition of weapons from those regions. He challenged the notion that the Sudanese army should capitulate, indicating that the country sources arms from nations that do not enforce sanctions against it. He defended Sudan’s right to procure weapons from any country that is willing to sell.

During the interview, when questioned about Sudan’s military procurement from Iran and Ukraine, Youssef reiterated, “We have the right to import weapons from anyone willing to sell us.” He dismissed concerns about Sudan becoming a hotbed for indirect tensions between Russia and Ukraine, asserting that such a scenario did not and would not occur. Youssef firmly stated Sudan’s commitment to its sovereignty and the significance of diversified international relations.

In summary, Ali Youssef’s interview underscored Sudan’s resolve to maintain its national sovereignty and seek military support from various nations, particularly in the face of Western sanctions. The delineation of the Sudan-Russia agreement further illustrates the nation’s intent to avoid colonial affiliations while navigating complex international relationships. Youssef’s assertive stance on weapon acquisitions highlights Sudan’s commitment to defense and self-determination.

Original Source: www.memri.org