Ruto denies backing Sudan’s RSF, calls allegations ‘propaganda’

President William Ruto has rejected accusations that Nairobi is backing Sudan's Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in their fight against the Sudanese Armed Forces, calling the claims "mere rumours and propaganda."

Speaking on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York, Ruto told France 24 that Kenya maintains "a strictly neutral position" in the conflict and remains focused on mediation rather than taking sides.

"Kenya's position is that the two generals are cut from the same cloth — both are products of a government that was overthrown," Ruto said.

"We must force the two generals to a ceasefire, but there are allegations, rumours and propaganda about Kenya, Egypt and even the UAE. The reason Kenya is being accused is that we offered a dialogue platform."

He added that Kenya's approach had received backing from several nations, including the United States, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates.

"We should deal with Sudan differently, and I am happy that the position Kenya has always put forward was accepted by others — there are no sides here," Ruto noted.

The remarks come after months of tension between Nairobi and Khartoum.

Sudan's government has previously accused Kenya of siding with the RSF and even hosting one of its events in Nairobi.

In May, Sudan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs imposed restrictions on Kenyan exports, citing Nairobi's alleged support for the paramilitary group.

Analysts say the spat underscores growing regional fault lines over Sudan's war, where mediation efforts by Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) and the African Union (AU) have struggled to gain traction.

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• Sudan war
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• Ruto denies backing Sudan’s RSF
• calls allegations ‘propaganda’