Russian fighter jets arrive in sudan
July 21, 2008
Damanga Coalition for Freedom and Democracy has just learnt that Sudan received a new shipment of a dozen MIG-29 combat jets flown in from Belarus. These fighter jets are manufactured in Russia, but sources are uncertain whether they were bought directly from Belarus or they were shipped through the country. This new supply of arms is in violation of the United Nations Security Council Resolution 1591 that prohibits the sale of arms or ammunition to Sudan. Last year, Amnesty International found China and Russia in violation of this embargo on arms.
Damanga Coalition for Freedom and Democracy is outraged over this recent development. It comes at a time when the International Criminal Court prosecutor has made moves to indict Sudanese President; Omar Al Bashir for war crimes. Also, supporters of Al Bashir have threatened more violence and we fear that this may be in preparation for an attack on more Darfuri villages. Mr Bashir should note that acquiring more fighter jets would not solve the situation; it would only prove that his regime is perpetuating the genocide in Darfur, and that indeed he is guilty of war crimes and crimes against humanity. This will not stop the ICC from taking decisive steps against him. The government of Sudan needs to account for the fighter jets in the country and what their purpose is. Damanga urges the UN, and the International Community to investigate Sudan’s dealings with Russia and China and ensure that the UN Resolution 1591 is strictly adhered to. We also urge the International Community to support the ICC prosecutor’s bid to indict Al Bashir.
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