Sudanese Government sources report that the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-North (SPLM-N) launched a major attack on January 25, targeting Al-Sillik, Milkan, and other areas in Bau County, Blue Nile region, from South Sudanese territory.
The Sudanese army’s 4th Infantry Division engaged in heavy fighting to repel the assault, described by officials as “foreign aggression”.
A senior Government official accused South Sudan of facilitating the attackers by allowing training and supply of military equipment. The clashes have caused significant civilian displacement toward safer zones within Bau.
The Blue Nile region, bordering South Sudan and Ethiopia, has seen increased military activity from RSF and SPLM-N forces under Abdel Aziz al-Hilu. Sudan has also previously alleged that the UAE supports RSF operations in the area. Earlier, the Sudanese army regained control of Milkan and Al-Sillik in April 2025,
following RSF occupation after defeats in Sennar State. Fighting in western Blue Nile has displaced roughly 100,000 people toward Ed Damazin.
