EU, MS Local Joint Statement on attack on UN peacekeepers

25/08/2026

Local Joint statement

The European Union Delegation to the Republic of South Sudan as well as the Embassies of Germany, France and the Netherlands strongly condemn yesterday’s deadly attack on a United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) patrol in Jonglei. 

UN peacekeepers in South Sudan work to protect civilians, promote peace and stability, facilitate the safe delivery of humanitarian assistance and monitor and report on human rights, and deserve the utmost respect. Attacks against peacekeepers are unacceptable and may constitute war crimes under international law.  We call for a full and transparent investigation into this attack and for the assailants to be held accountable. 

We express our deepest condolences to the families of those who lost their lives. The two peacekeepers that were killed paid the ultimate price in the service of good.

The persistent violence in South Sudan, in particular in Jonglei, also has a heavy toll on the civilian population and humanitarian aid workers. Since January, 36 humanitarian staff and contractors have been killed in the line of duty in South Sudan, already surpassing the 31 killed throughout 2025. We call on the leaders of South Sudan to engage in genuine dialogue to support the peace process and prevent further violence.