By Guya Scopas Bethuel
The European Union Delegation to South Sudan and the Embassies of Germany, France and the Netherlands have strongly condemned the deadly attack on a United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) patrol in Jonglei State.
In a joint statement, the European diplomatic missions described attacks against UN peacekeepers as unacceptable, warning that such acts may constitute war crimes under international law.
The statement called for a full and transparent investigation into the attack and urged that those responsible be held accountable.
The European missions also expressed their deepest condolences to the families of the two peacekeepers who were killed, saying the soldiers “paid the ultimate price in the service of good.”
The diplomats highlighted the important role of UNMISS peacekeepers in South Sudan, including protecting civilians, promoting peace and stability, facilitating the safe delivery of humanitarian assistance, and monitoring and reporting on human rights.
The condemnation comes amid continued violence in South Sudan, particularly in Jonglei, which has also taken a heavy toll on civilians and humanitarian workers.
According to the joint statement, 36 humanitarian staff and contractors have been killed in the line of duty in South Sudan since January 2026. This figure has already surpassed the 31 humanitarian workers killed throughout 2025.
The European Union and the three European countries expressed concern over the continuing violence and its impact on humanitarian operations and civilian populations.
They called on South Sudanese leaders to engage in genuine dialogue, support the peace process and take steps to prevent further violence.
The attack on the UNMISS patrol adds to growing concerns over the security of peacekeepers and humanitarian personnel operating in conflict-affected areas of South Sudan, particularly in Jonglei State.
The European diplomatic missions reiterated that peacekeepers and humanitarian workers must be allowed to carry out their duties safely and without threats or attacks.