Russia to Open Embassy in Juba: A New Chapter in South Sudan–Russia Relations

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‎ ‎In a significant diplomatic move, the Russian Federation is preparing to open its embassy in South Sudan between September and October 2025, marking a major milestone in the strengthening of bilateral ties between the two nations. ‎ ‎The news was confirmed by South Sudan’s Ambassador to Russia, Chol Tong Mayay, during a farewell event for a South Sudanese ICT delegation that recently attended the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF 2025). ‎ ‎A Long-Awaited Diplomatic Presence ‎The planned opening of a Russian embassy in Juba is seen as a long-overdue development in South Sudan-Russia relations.  ‎ ‎Since South Sudan gained independence in 2011, Russia has maintained diplomatic accreditation to Juba from its embassy in Khartoum.  ‎ ‎The establishment of a permanent diplomatic mission in the South Sudanese capital is expected to significantly boost cooperation, streamline consular services, and facilitate more direct political, economic, and cultural exchanges....

SSPDF and Agwelek Forces Capture New Fangak in Jonglei State ‎


SSPDF Soldier 

‎Government troops from the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF), backed by the Agwelek militia, have taken control of New Fangak (Phom) in Fangak County, Jonglei State, following a coordinated military offensive against forces loyal to the Sudan People’s Liberation Army-in-Opposition (SPLA-IO) and the White Army.

‎Major General Paromi Angui, the SSPDF operations commander and deputy commander of Agwelek forces, confirmed the capture, stating that the operation began on May 12 and resulted in the seizure of both New Fangak town and the Alel area to its south.

‎According to Gen. Paromi, government forces suffered minimal losses, with one soldier killed and a few others wounded. 

‎He claimed that the opposition suffered heavier casualties and reported the capture of two SPLA-IO fighters. He also noted that air power and river barges supported the operation.

‎Eyewitnesses and reports from the ground indicated that several houses were seen burning in New Fangak during and after the fighting. 

‎Most civilians had reportedly fled the area, but Gen. Paromi called on them to return, assuring them that unarmed civilians would not be harmed.

‎This development marks a major blow to SPLA-IO, as New Fangak has long been considered one of its strategic strongholds in Greater Jonglei. 

‎The SSPDF, with Agwelek’s support, now vows to continue military operations across Fangak County to neutralize remaining opposition and White Army elements.

‎The Agwelek militia, under the leadership of Gen. Johnson Olony, was partially integrated into the national army following a 2022 peace deal. 

‎Gen. Olony currently serves as assistant chief of defense forces for mobilization and disarmament.

‎The security situation remains tense, and humanitarian concerns are growing as displaced civilians seek safety amid fears of renewed violence in surrounding areas.

‎Stay with us for updates on this developing story.

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