Sudan Ceasefire Talks Begin Amid SAF Boycott

US-led ceasefire talks to end Sudan's 16-month civil war have commenced in Switzerland, despite the absence of the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF). Army leader Abdel Fattah al-Burhan's decision to boycott the negotiations, citing unmet conditions by the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and the inclusion of the UAE, has dampened hopes for a breakthrough. The RSF, however, has sent a delegation and expressed willingness to negotiate. The conflict has resulted in thousands of deaths and displaced approximately 10 million people, creating what the UN describes as the world's worst hunger crisis. The US and international partners are focusing on achieving a truce to facilitate humanitarian aid access. Despite the SAF's non-participation, efforts to end the humanitarian crisis continue with key international involvement.