Khartoum announced that it was ceasing all military operations and will begin disarming government allied militias in Darfur, “provided that an effective monitoring mechanism is put into action and observed by all involved parties.” That is a loophole big enough to drive a tank through, or for that matter, fly an Antonov bomber through. (more…)

Beijing’s military support of Khartoum – in addition to its economic and diplomatic support - has been troubling for many years, and Sudan and China’s tight lid on information has made it difficult to discern the true nature of their current relationship. The BBC evidence uncovers the ongoing nature of that military support – though the full extent remains unclear. It also remains unclear whether China is willfully violating the U.N. arms embargo, is turning a blind eye to the consequences of its military support, or is simply being manipulated by al-Bashir’s government. (more…)