Calls Mount in Sweden to Pressure UAE over Arms Export Role in Sudan Conflict

Sweden faces growing criticism over its arms exports to the United Arab Emirates (UAE), which is accused of supplying weapons to the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) militia involved in the ongoing civil war in Sudan. Last year, Sweden sold weapons worth 6 billion kronor to the UAE, making the Gulf state the largest recipient of Swedish arms exports. This trade has sparked ethical concerns, as the RSF’s weapon support is believed to violate the United Nations arms embargo on Sudan, contributing to a severe humanitarian crisis.

The conflict in Sudan escalated with the RSF's takeover of el-Fasher in late October, where tens of thousands of residents are feared dead. The city, previously home to approximately 250,000 people, has seen only 15% of its population escape the violence, underscoring the gravity of the situation.

Sweden's Foreign Minister Maria Malmer Stenergard recently acknowledged the necessity for increased pressure on Sudan but struggled to outline specific measures. Despite the European Union’s arms embargo targeting companies involved in the Sudan conflict, Sweden continues its significant arms sales to the UAE, including airborne radar systems valued at around six billion kronor, complicating efforts to curb violence.

Critics argue that Sweden must impose harsher actions such as halting trade agreements and arms exports to the UAE as pivotal steps to address the humanitarian fallout. Valdemar Möller has called for a more resolute stance against the UAE’s support for RSF, emphasizing the failure of current diplomatic pressures on the involved military leaders and the urgent need for increased sanctions from the EU.

The situation also highlights broader concerns as violence and threats have impacted politicians within Sweden, reflecting the unstable political environment surrounding this issue. Calls for a complete embargo on the UAE and more robust enforcement of international regulations continue to grow within Swedish political discourse.