2 UN peacekeepers killed in an ambush in South Sudan

JUBA, South Sudan (AP) — A tragic incident unfolded on Monday when two United Nations peacekeepers lost their lives after being ambushed by armed men while patrolling a remote area of South Sudan, according to the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS). The attack also resulted in injuries to three UNMISS peacekeepers, two South Sudanese police officers, and two civilian staff members of the mission.

The UNMISS swiftly deployed a "Quick Reaction Force" to secure the region and offer assistance in the aftermath of the attack. The patrol was en route to the Pajut area in Jonglei state when it came under fire. Anita Kiki Gbeho, the head of UNMISS, condemned the act, stating that violence targeting UNMISS personnel who are dedicated to supporting peace in South Sudan is completely intolerable.

The identities and nationalities of the two peacekeepers killed have not been disclosed at this time. South Sudan has long been plagued by violence, with government forces clashing against fighters and militias supporting opposition leader Riek Machar, who was stripped of his vice presidency last year following treason charges, allegations he claims are politically driven.

The peace deal between President Salva Kiir and Machar, which was signed last year, has since collapsed, raising concerns of a relapse into a full-scale civil war. The situation has worsened since December when opposition forces took control of government outposts in Jonglei. The government has launched a counteroffensive, employing both aerial bombardments and ground assaults, despite having pledged adherence to the peace agreement.