The United Nations Security Council on Thursday adopted a resolution extending the mandate of the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) for one year, until April 30, 2027, while approving a reduction in troop numbers. Resolution 2820 secured the backing of 13 of the Council’s 15 members, with China and Russia abstaining.
Both countries criticised the drafting process led by the United States, which serves as penholder on South Sudan. While supporting the extension of the mission’s mandate, they opposed the reduction in troop levels and what they described as undue pressure on the South Sudan government.
Under the new resolution, the troop ceiling will be reduced from 17,000 to 12,500 personnel, while the police component remains unchanged at 2,101 personnel.
The Council also signalled its readiness to review further adjustments to UNMISS force levels and responsibilities, contingent on developments in the security environment and the level of cooperation from South Sudan’s transitional authorities.