This Week in Peace: Key Developments in South Sudan, Ukraine, and Pakistan

This week’s Peace News Network discusses the implications of South Sudanese officials’ arrests on peace, President Zelensky’s readiness for negotiations with Russia, and protests in Pakistan demanding road reopenings in the Kurram district.

This week’s edition of Peace News Network focuses on significant developments impacting peace in South Sudan, Ukraine, and Pakistan. The arrests of South Sudanese officials raise alarms regarding the country’s stability, while President Zelensky of Ukraine expresses readiness for peace negotiations contingent on Russian cooperation. Moreover, ongoing protests in Pakistan emphasize the dire need for reopening blocked roads in conflict-affected districts.

On March 5, South Sudan’s First Vice President Riek Machar’s spokesperson announced the arrest of multiple officials, including oil minister Puot Kang Chol and deputy army chief Gabriel Doup Lam. This action threatens the fragile peace established post-civil war in 2013, with ongoing tensions between Machar and President Salva Kiir. Although a peace deal was reached in 2018, many issues remain unresolved, leading to fears of renewed violence, reflecting analysts’ concerns over the precarious balance of power in the nation.

Ukrainian President Voldymyr Zelensky stated on March 4 that Ukraine is prepared to take steps towards peace if Russia reciprocates. He proposed initial measures such as the release of prisoners and halting airstrikes on civilian infrastructure. Despite recent reductions in U.S. military aid, Zelensky acknowledged positive developments in U.S.-Ukraine relations and announced an upcoming meeting with U.S. officials. He reiterated the necessity for Ukraine’s involvement in any peace agreements, emphasizing the importance of European participation and security guarantees.

In Pakistan, protesters in Kurram district have been actively demanding the reopening of roads that have been blocked for five months. The protests, which have persisted for four days, are aimed at alleviating the hardships faced by residents during the blockade. Activists have warned of escalating protests into rural areas unless their demands are met, citing a dire need for immediate aid. The Kurram district has experienced ongoing violence, and a recent peace agreement between Sunni and Shia tribes has yet to stabilize the region fully.

In summary, the developments reported this week highlight critical tensions and initiatives towards peace across South Sudan, Ukraine, and Pakistan. The arrests of South Sudanese officials signal potential instability in the fragile peace agreement, while Ukraine’s readiness for negotiations emphasizes the necessity of mutual concessions from Russia. Meanwhile, the protests in Pakistan indicate an urgent response needed for the humanitarian crisis in Kurram district. Sustained dialogue and a commitment to peace are essential across all these regions.

Original Source: peacenews.com