UN ultimatum to Sudans expires

South Sudanese troops

The ultimatum of UN Security Council on Sudan and South Sudan to halt the violence expires.

The ultimatum calls on both countries to withdraw all troops to their own territory and cease all hostilities. UN expects both nations to submit a written commitment to stop the violence. 

Should the demands not be met, the UN will impose sanctions on both Sudan and South Sudan. Both China and Russia support the decision. 

South Sudan became independent in 2011, following a bloody civil war, for which more than 1,5 million people paid with their lives.

The disputes with Sudan over territory and oil have, however, remained unresolved. UN fears that the recent conflicts could turn into all-out war anew, add urgency to its attempts to lead the countries out of conflict and into new negotiations.