Sudan’s army chief Abdel-Fattah al-Burhan has dismissed a new U.S.-backed ceasefire proposal, describing it as the weakest plan presented so far, deepening uncertainty as diplomatic efforts struggle to halt the country’s escalating civil war.

The proposal, brought forward by U.S. officials and international mediators, was intended to create a temporary halt in fighting between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces, whose conflict has devastated Khartoum, Darfur and key regions for more than a year. Instead, Burhan publicly blasted the framework, insisting it failed to address core security concerns and accusing mediators of favouring concessions that would strengthen the RSF.

His criticism underscores the growing divide between Washington’s push for an immediate pause in hostilities and the Sudanese military’s insistence on battlefield leverage before any political agreement is signed. While U.S. officials say the plan prioritises humanitarian access and civilian protection, Sudan’s military leadership argues the terms risk legitimising RSF territorial gains and ongoing abuses.

The rejection comes at a critical moment. Millions remain displaced, entire cities have been destroyed, and humanitarian agencies warn that famine conditions are rapidly emerging as the conflict grinds on. International pressure has intensified, particularly from the U.S., African Union, IGAD and UN partners, who hoped the latest plan could serve as a foundation for broader negotiations.

Instead, Burhan’s remarks signal that the military is preparing for continued fighting rather than compromise. Analysts say both sides believe they still have more to gain on the battlefield than at the negotiating table, a dynamic that has repeatedly undermined peace initiatives.

Washington has not yet responded directly to Burhan’s comments, but officials emphasised that the ceasefire framework remains active and that pressure on both parties will increase in the coming weeks. Diplomats warn that without a breakthrough, Sudan’s conflict risks spilling over into neighbouring countries already grappling with refugee flows and regional instability.

As the war enters another tense phase, few signs point to de-escalation. And with Sudan’s military leadership outright rejecting the latest proposal, the path to any political settlement remains as fragile as ever.