Washington, DC – U.S. Senator Robert Menendez (D-NJ), Chairman of the Foreign Relations Committee, issued the following statement regarding the announced ceasefire between South Sudan and opposition forces.
Earlier this month, Chairman Menendez held a hearing on the crisis in South Sudan.
“Today’s breakthrough announcement in South Sudan is a critical step in the right direction which must result in the complete end of violence and hostilities. Too many innocent people have suffered and it is essential that unhindered humanitarian assistance be provided to civilians in need of aid. Negotiations for a long-term political agreement must commence immediately and individuals who committed mass atrocities must be held accountable for their actions. Only through inclusive dialogue can political and ethnic reconciliation be possible. I commend the efforts of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development mediators and the United States is committed to remaining actively engaged with our partners in South Sudan and the region.”
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