Sudan's RSF says it captured key town near Ethiopian and South Sudan borders

The Rapid Support Forces announced on Thursday they captured Al Kurmuk, a strategically positioned southern town bordering Ethiopia and South Sudan, marking the second Blue Nile State town seized this week. The RSF announced the capture but provided no casualty figures. According to their statement, fighters chased SAF combatants out of the town and seized large amounts of hardware and ammunition. Al Kurmuk sits less than 140 kilometers from Damazin (Blue Nile state capital) and approximately 160 kilometers from the Roseires Dam, described as an important source of power for the country. The town's proximity to Ethiopian and South Sudanese borders enhances its tactical value. Second town captured in Blue Nile this week (Qayssan seized Tuesday). Civil war ongoing since April 2023. Conflict has killed tens of thousands and displaced roughly 14 million people. UN characterizes situation as the world's worst humanitarian crisis, with approximately 20 million people facing hunger. The SAF has not publicly commented on losing these towns.