By James Simmons-
An intelligence officer embedded within the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) has sensationally claimed the United Arab Emirates (UAE) acts as the main financial and military backer of the paramilitary militia in Sudan’s devastating civil war. This exclusive interview conducted by Sky News with the anonymous officer heightens international scrutiny on external actors prolonging the conflict, which has triggered the world’s largest humanitarian crisis.
An RSF intelligence officer spoke anonymously to Sky’s Yousra Elbagir. Sky News
The officer, identified only as Ahmed, risks his life to confirm widespread allegations. He described a shift from earlier Russian support, now directly naming the UAE main backer RSF operations.
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Weapons Pipeline and Financial Ties Alleged
Ahmed provided details about an alleged supply chain used to ferry weaponry and essential materials to the RSF. He claimed that many planes landing in South Darfur bring weapons originating from the Middle Eastern nation, partially routed through Amdjarass airport in neighbouring Chad. This logistics route suggests an air bridge is actively supplying the militia.
An RSF intelligence officer speaks anonymously to Sky’s Yousra Elbagir . Sky News
The intelligence officer also highlighted the significant financial relationship between the groups. “It’s a financial relationship, no more,” he stated, noting the RSF controls areas rich in gold mines. Gold is frequently transported to the UAE, a global gold trading hub, thus creating a powerful economic incentive for the ongoing conflict.
The RSF has physically reinforced its siege of Al Fashir with a berm – a raised earth mound. This map shows its encirclement. Pic: Yale Humanitarian Research Lab
The officer described a second arms route which runs from Chad’s second city, Abeche, through the Adre crossing and into West Darfur. The sophisticated weapons, including drones used by the RSF in its brutal assault on Al Fashir, allegedly originate from the Gulf state.
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Earlier reports submitted to the United Nations Security Council by Sudanese authorities alleged hundreds of UAE-chartered flights illegally smuggled arms and mercenaries into Sudanese territory between November and February. The serious accusation that the UAE main backer RSF campaign is prolonging the violence demands a robust international response.
UAE Categorically Rejects All Allegations
The United Arab Emirates government has strongly refuted all allegations of involvement in the conflict or support for the warring parties. The UAE Foreign Ministry stated it “categorically rejects any claims of providing any form of support” since the civil war began. Officials further stated that Abu Dhabi remains committed to regional and international efforts aimed at achieving an immediate ceasefire and supporting a civilian-led process.
The ministry characterised the escalating fabrications as “deliberate propaganda” from one of the warring parties, intended to shift blame and obstruct a genuine peace process. They referenced the latest UN Panel of Experts report, claiming it contains no substantiated evidence the UAE has supported the RSF or has any involvement.
However, critics suggest the sheer scale of the RSF’s military activity, including the documented use of advanced weaponry, raises significant questions about its funding sources.
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