Norway has temporarily closed its embassy in South Sudan, citing serious security concerns due to ongoing violent clashes.
On Wednesday, the Norwegian government also urged its citizens to leave the country immediately and avoid any future travel there.

According to Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide, the recent deterioration in security poses a direct threat to both civilians and diplomatic staff.
“The security situation in South Sudan has sharply deteriorated recently,” Eide said in a statement.
“This primarily affects the country’s civilian population but also threatens our staff’s safety and freedom of movement.”

Embassy Operations Shift to Nairobi

Due to the rising instability, Norway has officially shut down its diplomatic operations in Juba until further notice.
From now on, Norway’s embassy in Nairobi, Kenya, will handle all diplomatic affairs related to South Sudan.

This decision underscores the growing international concern over South Sudan’s volatile situation.
Eide emphasized that the move is temporary but necessary to protect staff and maintain diplomatic continuity.

Clashes Erupt Between Kiir and Machar Forces

Fighting has intensified over the past several weeks between government troops loyal to President Salva Kiir and the “White Army,” a powerful militia accused of backing First Vice President Riek Machar.
This renewed violence threatens the fragile 2018 power-sharing peace deal, which brought the two rivals into a unity government.

The fighting signals a dangerous regression, raising fears that South Sudan could slip back into full-scale civil war.
Already, the violence has displaced thousands and disrupted aid efforts across conflict zones.

2018 Peace Deal Under Threat

South Sudan’s recent history has been shaped by instability and deep political divisions.
After gaining independence in 2011, the country quickly descended into a brutal five-year civil war, primarily between Kiir and Machar.
The conflict killed an estimated 400,000 people before a peace agreement in 2018 led to the formation of a fragile unity government.

However, the latest clashes now cast doubt on the future of that agreement.
Analysts fear that continued fighting could unravel the progress made over the past five years.

Norway Stands by Peace but Prioritizes Safety

Norway has long played a key role in supporting peacebuilding efforts in South Sudan.
While reaffirming its commitment to a peaceful resolution, the Norwegian government made clear that safety comes first.
“As always, we stand in solidarity with the South Sudanese people,” Eide said.
“But we must also protect our staff and citizens during this dangerous period.”