UN Chief condemns fatal ambush on Ethiopian peacekeepers in Jonglei

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has strongly condemned a deadly ambush on a UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) patrol in Jonglei State that left two Ethiopian peacekeepers dead and seven others wounded.

In an official statement released on X (formerly Twitter), the UN chief denounced the attack carried out by unidentified armed individuals against peacekeepers serving under the peacekeeping mission.

“I condemn in the strongest terms the ambush on an UNMISS patrol in the Jonglei State of South Sudan by unidentified armed individuals. Two Ethiopian peacekeepers were killed in the attack, while seven others were injured,” Guterres said.

Guterres extended his deepest condolences to the bereaved families, the people, and the Government of Ethiopia, while wishing a swift and complete recovery to the injured peacekeepers.

Warning the perpetrators of potential legal consequences, the Secretary-General emphasized that deliberate targeting of UN personnel violates basic international protections.

“Attacks against UN peacekeepers are grave violations of international humanitarian law and may amount to war crimes. The UN stands with the victims and their families during this profoundly difficult time,” the UN Secretary-General stated.

The United Nations has repeatedly called on South Sudanese authorities to investigate incidents targeting peacekeepers, hold perpetrators accountable, and ensure safe operational access for humanitarian and peacekeeping personnel across the country.