Sudan slams EU sanctions on military commanders and companies as unfair, legally baseless

The Sudanese government has rejected newly imposed European Union sanctions against two of its military commanders and two Sudan-based companies, calling the move unfair and lacking a legal basis.

This comes after the EU Council announced sanctions on Friday targeting Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) commander Abu Aqla Mohamed Kaikal and field commander Hussein Barsham.

Also sanctioned were Alkhaleej Bank and Red Rock Mining Company. The EU accuses individuals and entities of playing key roles in fueling Sudan’s ongoing conflict through financial, logistical, and military support.

Abu Aqla was sanctioned over his role in targeting the Kanabi—a historically marginalised community composed mainly of Nuba and other African tribes—while leading the Sudan Shield Forces.

Hussein Barsham was cited for leading operations linked to widespread atrocities, including mass killings, ethnic violence, forced displacement, and attacks on civilians, particularly in Darfur.

Red Rock Mining Company, whose parent firm is already under EU, U.S., and UK sanctions, was accused of helping produce weapons and vehicles for the SAF.

Alkhaleej Bank, meanwhile, is said to be largely owned by businesses linked to the family of Rapid Support Forces (RSF) commander Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, also known as "Hemedti." The EU claims the bank plays a central role in financing RSF operations.

Asset freeze

"Those listed today are subject to an asset freeze, and the provision of funds or economic resources, directly or indirectly, to them or for their benefit, is prohibited. Additionally, a travel ban to the EU applies to the natural persons listed," said the EU Council.

In a response posted on X, Sudan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs rejected the sanctions imposed on the four individuals and entities, and strongly criticised the EU’s justification, particularly its characterisation of the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) as an “outlawed, rebellious armed group.”

"It is unacceptable to compare a national institution fulfilling its role in protecting national sovereignty and maintaining security with militias that have rebelled against the state and committed serious, documented violations, including forced displacement, sexual violence, and ethnic cleansing, as indicated by independent national and UN reports," the statement issued in Arabic roughly translates.

The Foreign Ministry further expressed disappointment over the timing of the sanctions, noting it comes amid what it described as a "positive phase of engagement" between Khartoum and the EU Council.

The Sudanese government also reaffirmed its commitment to protecting civilians, upholding the rule of law, and safeguarding national security. It called on the EU to support Sudan’s legitimate institutions rather than undermine them.

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