Two UN peacekeepers killed in South Sudan ambush

The patrol by the peacekeeping mission in the country, UNMISS, was attacked on the way to Pajut, a remote area in the eastern region. 

Following the incident, the Mission immediately sent a quick reaction force to secure the area and support the emergency response.

The seven injured people included three peacekeepers, two South Sudan National Police Service personnel and two civilian staff.

Possible war crime

Extending condolences to the families and loved ones of those killed and injured, UNMISS chief Anita Kiki Gbeho said that “such deadly violence targeting UNMISS personnel who are serving to support peace in South Sudan is unacceptable.”

She called on the “relevant authorities to conduct a thorough and prompt investigation to ensure that those responsible are brought to justice”.

Attacks against UN peacekeepers may constitute war crimes under international law, UNMISS said.

Fragile peace

Renewed violence in South Sudan has put the fragile peace process in the country under growing strain.

South Sudan gained independence from Sudan in 2011 after more than two decades of civil war. 

Just two years later, the new country descended into a separate civil war after a political struggle between President Salva Kiir and his then deputy, Riek Machar.

Established shortly after independence in 2011, UNMISS is mandated to protect civilians, facilitate humanitarian access, monitor human-rights violations and support the country’s peace process and political transition.

Aid workers under attack

South Sudan is among the most dangerous for aid workers, according to UN agencies. 

At least 36 humanitarian workers have been killed in South Sudan since January, surpassing the 31 killed in all of 2025.

Attacks on humanitarian workers are unacceptable and violate international humanitarian law, the UN Spokesperson said.