Renewed SSPDF/UPDF aerial bombardment injures 10 people, kills 35 cows in Panyijiar
(Radio Tamazuj, June 26, 2025)
At least 10 people were injured, 35 head of cattle killed, and 52 others wounded in renewed aerial attacks by the SSPDF and Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) in Unity State’s Panyijiar County on Tuesday, local officials said. Panyijiar County is a stronghold of the opposition SPLM/A-IO led by detained First Vice President Dr. Riek Machar.
‘Unite the army, develop infrastructure’, public call for reforms ahead of the elections
(The City Review, June 26, 2025)
In the countdown to the December 2026 elections, a round table discussion of various stakeholder from Western Equatoria have enlisted key issues that the government should realign before the upcoming polls. From unification of armed forces to the dire need for infrastructure development and civic education, the speakers signaled the country’s leadership to take up the challenge, roll up sleeves and deliver on the agenda.
Russia Establishes Formal Diplomatic Ties with South Sudan
(Africa.com, June 25, 2025)
Russia is set to open its first embassy in South Sudan later this year, solidifying its diplomatic presence in Africa’s youngest nation. The move reflects Moscow’s strategic ambitions to broaden its influence in Africa, particularly amid shifting global alliances. Announced by South Sudan’s Ambassador to Russia, Chol Tong Mayay, the embassy plan follows increased cooperation between Juba and Moscow, including new scholarships and agreements on energy and mineral exploration.
South Sudan’s Kiir in UAE amid regional tensions
(Sudan Tribune, June 23, 2025)
South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir arrived in the United Arab Emirates on Sunday for an official diplomatic visit, his second publicly announced trip to the Gulf nation since February. The visit takes place amid heightened geopolitical and regional tensions. Kiir was seen off at Juba International Airport by Benjamin Bol Mel, recently appointed first deputy chairman of the ruling Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (SPLM) and vice president and chairperson of the economic cluster in the transitional government. This marked Mel’s first official farewell since First Vice President Riek Machar was placed under house arrest, allowing Mel to oversee government operations during Kiir’s absence.
Thousands unite at a peace concert in Malakal, calling for an end to conflict
(UNMISS, June 26, 2025)
UPPER NILE – This year has been harder than usual for communities in South Sudan’s Upper Nile state, as soaring conflict has led to deaths, displacement and widespread security issues. But, when the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), the state government and UNESCO, decided to leverage the power of music to unite divided communities, by hosting a concert in Malakal, the state capital, the first stirring of hope was evident.
