Haftar accused of fuelling Sudan’s RSF war machine

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has issued strong warnings to foreign actors accused of supplying military and financial support to Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces (RSF), saying such assistance is prolonging the conflict and worsening the humanitarian crisis.

Rubio made his remarks during a press briefing following the G7 foreign ministers’ meeting in Canada, where Sudan’s deteriorating situation was a key topic. He said Washington has credible information that the RSF, led by Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo (Hemedti), continues to receive significant external backing.

“We know that the Rapid Support Forces are receiving support from outside Sudan, including weapons and funds from multiple countries,” Rubio said. “Something has to be done to cut off the supply of weapons and support the RSF is receiving as it continues its advance.”

Although he declined to identify any specific state, Rubio stressed that the United States is aware of the transit routes and the governments involved. “This support is passing through a particular country. We know who they are, and we will speak to them. They must understand that allowing this to continue will have negative consequences for them and the wider region.”

Humanitarian Toll Growing

Rubio linked foreign assistance for the RSF directly to the worsening humanitarian situation across Sudan. Aid agencies warn that displacement figures are far lower than expected, raising fears that many civilians have been killed, gone missing, or remain trapped in conflict zones without aid or medical treatment.

He affirmed that Washington will maintain diplomatic pressure on any state or individual found to be aiding Hemedti’s forces, saying such actions “prolong the violence and undermine prospects for a peaceful settlement”.

Allegations of UAE Support and Libyan Involvement

International reports have repeatedly pointed to alleged arms shipments and logistical support provided to the RSF by the United Arab Emirates, often routed through neighbouring countries — including Libya. These reports claim that weapons, including advanced drones, have been moved via Libyan territory with the involvement of forces loyal to eastern Libyan commander Khalifa Haftar.

Haftar, who maintains close ties with the UAE, has been cited in several investigations as one of the RSF’s principal regional allies. He is accused of facilitating arms transfers and fuel supplies that have enabled the RSF to sustain operations in Darfur and other parts of Sudan. Haftar’s forces have not publicly responded to these allegations.

The Sentry: Fuel Smuggling Network Supporting the RSF

A recent report by the US-based watchdog The Sentry alleged that Haftar’s forces have been supplying smuggled fuel to the RSF “on behalf of the United Arab Emirates”. The report claims this fuel — primarily diesel and petrol — has been crucial to the RSF’s mobility and tactical operations throughout the conflict.

The organisation argues that the smuggling network represents both a significant financial drain on Libya’s economy and a major lifeline for the RSF. It urged the international community to strengthen enforcement of existing sanctions and embargoes.

Regional Implications

Rubio’s remarks, which represent some of the strongest language yet from Washington on foreign involvement in Sudan, suggest additional diplomatic pressure or sanctions could follow. Analysts warn that continued flows of weapons and fuel risk further destabilising Sudan and deepening insecurity across the region — including Libya, where smuggling networks remain active despite ongoing investigations.