The United Kingdom has long supported strengthening the UN sanctions regime: UK Explanation of Vote at the UN Security Council

The United Kingdom supported a UN Security Council resolution that temporarily extends Sudan sanctions until 9 October, describing it as a necessary technical rollover to facilitate further discussions. Ambassador Kate Foster, UK Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, highlighted the need for the sanctions regime to adapt to the conflict’s changed dynamics since its inception. The UK acknowledged the United States’ leadership in updating the regime, noting the significant shifts in the conflict’s scope and impact on civilians. The temporary extension preserves a critical Council tool but underscores the urgency for substantive negotiations in the coming weeks.

Ambassador Foster emphasized that the sanctions regime must reflect the conflict’s spread across Sudan and press parties to halt violence and protect civilians. She stressed the importance of constraining the flow of weapons and support fueling the war, as millions face displacement, hunger, and insecurity. The UK reiterated its long-standing support for strengthening the sanctions regime to ensure it remains effective and credible. The statement called for pragmatic and flexible negotiations to align the regime with the protection of civilians and peace efforts.

The UK pointed to recent civilian casualties, including over 1,000 civilians killed in drone strikes between January and May, as evidence of the urgent need for an updated sanctions regime. Ambassador Foster urged Council members to engage seriously in the next phase of negotiations, emphasizing their responsibility to ensure the regime’s future effectiveness. The temporary extension is framed as a window to develop measures that address the conflict’s realities and support peace. The UK remains committed to working towards an agreement that meaningfully contributes to civilian protection.

The UK’s statement concluded with a call for all Council members to approach negotiations with pragmatism and flexibility, aiming for a regime that supports peace and civilian safety. Ambassador Foster highlighted the Council’s opportunity over the coming weeks to ensure the sanctions regime remains fit for purpose. The UK underscored the need for the regime to press parties to halt violence and protect civilians, including through constraints on weapons and support flows. The statement reinforced the UK’s ongoing commitment to aligning the sanctions regime with the evolving conflict in Sudan.