Russian Cargo Plane Downed in Darfur: RSF Claims Responsibility Amid Escalating Sudan Conflict
Staff Editor Russian Cargo Plane Reportedly Shot Down in Sudan’s Darfur Region
The Russian embassy in Sudan is currently investigating reports of a cargo plane with a Russian crew being shot down in the Darfur region. The aircraft, identified as a Russian-made Ilyushin Il-76, was reportedly delivering equipment and medicine to the army-held city of el-Fasher when the incident occurred.
The Rapid Support Forces (RSF), a paramilitary group engaged in conflict with Sudan’s army, has claimed responsibility for downing a Russian-made plane. The RSF accused the aircraft of bombing civilians, although they identified it as an Antonov rather than an Ilyushin.
According to initial reports, all crew members, including three Sudanese and two Russians, were killed in the crash. The incident took place near the Malha area as the plane was en route to el-Fasher, which is currently under army control and facing attacks from RSF forces.
The RSF has stated that they have the plane’s black box and related documents. Viral footage circulating online shows RSF soldiers displaying identification documents near the wreckage, including a Russian passport and other IDs suggesting ties to a Russian military academy and South Africa.
Speculations about the cause of the crash range from a technical fault to mistaken targeting. There have also been allegations of the plane’s affiliation with a UAE-linked airline, though the UAE has denied arming the RSF. The United Nations has claimed to have credible evidence of UAE involvement in the conflict.
Egypt has denied any involvement in providing military support to Sudan’s army, as the conflict between the army and RSF continues to escalate.
The ongoing conflict has led to a severe humanitarian crisis in Sudan, with significant casualties and displacement. Recent diplomatic efforts to cease hostilities have failed and fighting has intensified around the capital, Khartoum, where RSF maintains control despite military airstrikes.
As the situation develops, international attention remains focused on the crisis and its broader implications for the region. The Russian embassy is coordinating with Sudanese military authorities to gather more information about the crash and its circumstances.
