Rapid Support Forces Strike Fuel Depot in Sudan's Kosti
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KOSTI, Sudan — The Rapid Support Forces launched a drone attack on a fuel depot in Kosti on Monday, targeting infrastructure in the southern region of the country. The strike occurred in the Rabak direction, approximately 100 kilometers south of the capital, Khartoum, disrupting local energy supplies and raising concerns over the escalation of conflict in the area.
The incident took place at 14:56 GMT on May 5, 2026. Witnesses described the sound of drones overhead followed by explosions at the facility. Local officials confirmed that the depot was hit, though details regarding casualties or the extent of damage remain unclear. Emergency services were dispatched to the scene to manage the aftermath and assess potential hazards from burning fuel.
Kosti has been a strategic location throughout the ongoing conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces. Control over key infrastructure, including fuel depots and transportation hubs, has been a focal point of military operations in the region. The attack on the depot marks a significant development in the struggle for resources and territorial control.
The Rapid Support Forces have not issued a statement confirming responsibility for the strike. Meanwhile, the Sudanese Armed Forces have not commented on the incident. The lack of official statements from either side leaves the motivations behind the attack unclear. Analysts suggest that targeting fuel infrastructure could be intended to weaken logistical capabilities or exert pressure on civilian populations in contested areas.
Residents in Kosti reported disruptions in fuel availability following the strike. Local markets and transportation networks rely heavily on the depot for daily operations. The attack has raised fears of further instability in the region, as access to fuel is critical for both civilian needs and military movements.
Humanitarian organizations have expressed concern over the impact of the strike on civilians. The destruction of fuel infrastructure can exacerbate shortages of essential goods and services, particularly in areas already affected by prolonged conflict. Aid groups are monitoring the situation closely to assess the need for emergency assistance.
The broader conflict in Sudan continues to draw international attention, with calls for a ceasefire and diplomatic intervention. The attack on the fuel depot in Kosti adds to the growing list of incidents that highlight the complexity and volatility of the situation. As the conflict persists, the safety of civilians and the stability of critical infrastructure remain major concerns.
Questions remain regarding the full scope of the damage and the potential for retaliatory actions. The situation in Kosti is evolving, with local authorities working to restore services and ensure public safety. The international community is urged to remain vigilant and support efforts to de-escalate tensions in the region.