Sudanese Foreign Minister Ali Youssef Addresses Military Supply Dependencies and Russian Relations

Sudanese Foreign Minister Ali Youssef confirmed in a BBC Arabic interview that Sudan’s conflict will continue through Ramadan, discussed a Russia-Sudan naval agreement as a service area rather than a base, and asserted Sudan’s right to procure arms from any nation willing to sell, including Ukraine and Iran. He emphasized Sudan’s autonomy in dealing with military supplies despite sanctions from Western nations.

In a recent interview on March 2, 2025, with BBC Arabic, Sudanese Foreign Minister Ali Youssef asserted that the ongoing conflict in Sudan would persist through the month of Ramadan, characterizing it as “the month of war” in Islamic history. He addressed queries regarding Sudan’s military agreements, particularly with Russia, clarifying that a proposed naval base on the Red Sea is actually a “service area” for military vessels, rather than an established base. This antiquated agreement was made during President Bashir’s administration and awaits parliamentary ratification as Sudan transitions towards democratic elections.

Youssef articulated that Sudan is currently under Western sanctions, effectively limiting its access to military supplies from these nations. When discussing the implications surrounding this situation, he contended that the Sudanese army cannot be expected to surrender without having the means for self-defense. Consequently, Sudan is obtaining arms from nations that do not share these punitive measures against it, emphasizing its right to procure weapons from any willing supplier.

When pressed about reports of weapon purchases from Ukraine and Iran, Youssef reaffirmed that Sudan reserves the right to acquire arms from any nation prepared to sell them. He responded to concerns regarding Sudan potentially serving as a battleground for indirect Russia-Ukraine conflict, firmly stating that this scenario had not occurred and would not transpire in the future. Youssef concluded by asserting that neither foreign entities nor media could dictate Sudan’s military procurement choices, underlining the autonomy of Sudan in this regard.

In conclusion, Foreign Minister Ali Youssef’s interview highlights Sudan’s commitment to maintaining its sovereignty and securing military relations with various nations amid sanctions. He emphasized the ongoing nature of conflict in Sudan during Ramadan, the misunderstanding surrounding the naval service area with Russia, and the country’s rights to purchase arms from willing sellers, including Ukraine and Iran. Ultimately, Youssef’s statements reflect Sudan’s strategic positioning within a complex geopolitical landscape, dismissing foreign interference in its defense decisions.

Original Source: www.memri.org