UN Cuts South Sudan Peacekeeping Force to 12,000 Amid Rising Political Tensions

The United Nations Security Council has voted to reduce the number of peacekeeping troops deployed in South Sudan from 17,000 to 12,000 , a move that comes at a delicate time for a country still struggling to stabilise after years of conflict. The resolution, introduced by the United States , was adopted with 13 votes in favour , while Russia and China abstained. Despite the troop reduction, the mission’s mandate has been extended until April 30, 2027 , with a continued focus on protecting civilians, maintaining peace, and facilitating humanitarian aid.

Explaining the decision, US Ambassador Mike Waltz said the aim is to bring the mission “back to basics,” underlining that UN peacekeeping operations are meant to be temporary and should help nations transition toward self-reliance in maintaining security. However, the decision comes against the backdrop of growing concerns over political instability and obstruction of international efforts on the ground.

South Sudan’s troubles date back to soon after its independence in 2011, when hopes of stability quickly faded into a brutal civil war in 2013. The conflict, largely driven by ethnic divisions, saw forces loyal to President Salva Kiir clash with those aligned with Vice President Riek Machar , leaving more than 400,000 people dead . Although a peace agreement was signed in 2018 and a unity government formed, tensions have resurfaced in recent months.

In March 2025, Machar was placed under house arrest and charged with treason, a move that coincided with a spike in violence and raised fears about the collapse of the fragile peace deal. The United States has also accused Kiir’s government of obstructing UN operations, citing over 480 incidents between October and March where peacekeepers were blocked, aid access was denied, and key operations were disrupted, leading to significant financial losses.

While some members of the council supported a leaner mission, Russia cautioned against the reduction, arguing that the force must remain adequately equipped to respond to evolving security threats. With long-delayed elections scheduled for December, the reduction of UN troops places greater responsibility on South Sudan’s leadership at a time when the country’s path to lasting peace remains uncertain.