Norway Temporarily Closes South Sudan Embassy Due to Security Concerns

By Reuters

Copenhagen, March 26, 2025 - Norway has announced the temporary closure of its embassy in South Sudan's capital, Juba, due to a worsening security situation in the area. The Norwegian foreign ministry reported the decision on Wednesday, highlighting increasing tensions and violence within the country.

The closure follows recent developments in South Sudan's political landscape. President Salva Kiir sacked the governor of Upper Nile state last week amid escalating clashes between government forces and an ethnic militia. This militia is suspected of aligning with Kiir's political opponent, First Vice President Riek Machar. The ongoing conflict raises alarms about the potential for renewed violence in South Sudan, which has struggled to maintain stability since its independence in 2011. Norway's foreign ministry has stated that embassy operations will be relocated to Kenya's capital, Nairobi, until the situation improves. The ministry indicated that they would monitor the developments closely and plan to reopen the Juba mission when it is deemed safe to do so.

This decision marks a significant shift for Norway, highlighting the continuing challenges faced by South Sudan as it navigates its complex political environment and seeks to avoid a return to the civil war that caused widespread suffering and displacement in the nation.

For further updates on this developing story, stay tuned to Reuters.