Summary
The United Nations Mission in South Sudan refused to leave its base in the town of Akobo, despite orders from the South Sudanese army to vacate due to a planned assault. The U.N. mission is staying to protect civilians amid ongoing conflict between the government and opposition forces.
Key Facts
- The U.N. Mission in South Sudan has a base in Akobo, near the Ethiopian border.
- The South Sudanese army ordered U.N. peacekeepers and aid workers to leave Akobo.
- The U.N. mission decided to stay to protect civilians in the area.
- The South Sudanese government and opposition forces have been in conflict since a peace deal fell apart.
- Humanitarian workers left Akobo over the weekend, fearing a government attack.
- Akobo is now reportedly controlled by the South Sudanese army.
- The U.S., U.K., and Norway asked South Sudan's President Salva Kiir to stop the army's evacuation order.
- Local officials reported shortages of supplies and danger for fleeing civilians.
