Insurgents raided a village in South Sudan on Sunday, killing at least 169 people, including 90 civilians. The attack occurred in Abiemnom county, with victims including women and children. The UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) reported that 1,000 people sought shelter at its base following the assault. UNMISS officials urged an immediate cessation of hostilities and engagement in dialogue.
The killings are part of escalating violence between forces loyal to President Salva Kiir and armed groups affiliated with opposition leader Riek Machar. Elements linked to the White Army militia and forces affiliated with Machar's Sudan People's Liberation Movement-in-Opposition are suspected of conducting the raid. Machar's group has denied responsibility.
The conflict threatens a fragile peace agreement reached in 2018. Renewed fighting has already displaced an estimated 280,000 people. The U.S. is urging talks between Kiir and Machar to de-escalate the situation.