The most recent escalation of violence and the political tensions in South Sudan are a threat to stability in the entire region and a major setback on the path towards lasting peace. There are disturbing reports that airstrikes have claimed many lives. President Kiir and First Vice President Machar have a responsibility to resume the dialogue with one another, so that further violence is prevented and the peace agreement of 2018 can be implemented at long last.

We urge all stakeholders to exercise maximum restraint and to refrain from any actions that might lead to a further escalation of the situation.

We again condemn in the strongest possible terms attacks on UNMISS personnel. UNMISS must be able to perform its important mandate to protect the civilian population and support the implementation of the peace agreement.