A DOCUMENT now circulating in Malaysia alleges that a network of foreign logistical, financial and military support is helping sustain the conflict in Sudan, primarily by bolstering the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF).
Prepared by the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and shared through Sudan’s embassy in Kuala Lumpur, the report frames the war as more than a domestic power struggle — instead pointing to what it describes as sustained external interference undermining the country’s sovereignty and stability.
At the centre of the conflict is the RSF, led by Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, widely known as Hemedti. Once rooted in militia groups active during the Darfur conflict, the RSF rose rapidly after the fall of former president Omar al-Bashir, becoming one of Sudan’s most powerful armed actors.
By April 2023, tensions between the RSF and SAF had exploded into full-scale war — a conflict that has since spiralled into one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises. Cities have been shattered, millions displaced, and state institutions pushed to the brink.
Claims of external support
The SAF report alleges that the United Arab Emirates provided sustained backing to the RSF both before and after the war began. The claims — which have not been independently verified — include military supplies, financial assistance, logistical coordination and efforts to shape public perception of the group.
The UAE has consistently denied supporting any side, maintaining that it backs diplomatic and humanitarian efforts to end the conflict.
According to the report, supply routes allegedly ran through neighbouring countries, including Chad and the Central African Republic. These routes were said to involve cargo aircraft, temporary landing strips and transit hubs used to move weapons, drones and fuel into Sudan.
Eastern Libya — particularly the Kufra region — is described as a key staging ground where fighters and military equipment were allegedly assembled before entering Sudan.
Scale and reach
The report claims that from January 2025 until its publication, more than 20,000 fighters were mobilised, alongside thousands of vehicles and supply trucks. It also alleges the transfer of around 120 drones, as well as electronic warfare and jamming systems.
More than 160 cargo aircraft carrying military equipment were reportedly tracked arriving at Kufra Airport. The report points to a network of actors allegedly involved, including factions linked to the Libyan National Army, armed groups in southern Libya, Chadian opposition elements and Sudanese armed movements operating along the border areas.
It further alleges that foreign mercenaries — including Colombians — were involved in training RSF fighters, particularly in artillery operations, communications and reconnaissance.
More than a civil war
Beyond the battlefield, the report suggests the conflict is also driven by strategic interests. Sudan’s gold reserves, ports and agricultural land are highlighted as potential incentives, while its location between the Red Sea, the Horn of Africa and the Sahel places it at the centre of regional power competition.
For Malaysia, the war is not a distant issue. Kuala Lumpur has maintained diplomatic ties with Sudan and evacuated its citizens after fighting erupted, underscoring concerns over the deteriorating security situation.
Malaysia has repeatedly called for an end to hostilities, protection of civilians and unhindered humanitarian access — consistent with its broader stance on sovereignty, non-interference and peaceful resolution of conflicts.
The SAF report ultimately calls for stronger international action against mercenary involvement, tighter monitoring of alleged foreign support networks and increased diplomatic pressure on neighbouring states accused of facilitating supply routes.
It also urges global and regional actors to support Sudan’s unity and stability — and to reject any form of partition or foreign intervention. – June 17, 2026
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