Sudan: Sudan Battlefield Shifts As RSF Intensifies Operations in Blue Nile

The Sudan battlefield is experiencing rapid changes, with paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) stepping up military operations in Blue Nile state, according to Brig Gen Dr Jamal El Shahid, a security and military expert. El Shahid reported that both RSF and the Sudan People's Liberation Movement-North (SPLM-N), led by Joseph Toka, have intensified attacks on Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) positions in Blue Nile, supported by troops and drones from bases in two countries along Sudan's south-eastern border.

This escalation has forced the army to withdraw from towns El Kurmuk and Geisan, where it is now repositioning around these strategic locations. El Shahid also noted that RSF has received logistical support from Assosa, the capital city of Ethiopia's Benishangul-Gumuz Region, potentially aiding its expansion in Blue Nile. Meanwhile, SAF has consolidated control over large areas of Kordofan and inflicted heavy losses on opponents along the desert axis, particularly near Bir Saliba and Umm Sayala.

The army is preparing for further operations in Darfur, including a possible offensive on El Fasher and mobilization for the "Battle of El Geneina." SAF's adoption of a new aircraft fleet has reportedly made a significant impact on the battlefield, while internal divisions within RSF and public dissatisfaction with its rule could further weaken the paramilitary group.

Recent demonstrations against RSF in Zalingei and tensions between RSF leadership and its civilian allies suggest further instability. El Shahid connected these developments to the SAF's Armed Forces Day celebrations, which aimed to reassure the public and signal stability abroad. The presence of foreign diplomats in Khartoum, including those from the UK and Saudi Arabia, reinforced this message.