African Union Summit confronts worsening conflicts
France 24
by FRANCE24February 15, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The African Union (AU) Summit has placed Sudan’s ongoing civil war at the forefront of its agenda, with nearly three years of conflict resulting in tens of thousands of deaths and over 11 million displaced individuals. The United Nations has labeled this situation as the worst humanitarian crisis globally. Despite international efforts, a resolution remains elusive, with diplomats highlighting how the rivalry between Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) exacerbates regional tensions beyond Sudan’s borders.
This conflict underscores deeper geopolitical divisions, particularly in regions like Libya, Eritrea, and Ethiopia. The AU summit, held in Ethiopia, aims to address these interconnected issues. However, the involvement of external powers complicates diplomatic efforts, as both Saudi Arabia and the UAE support opposing factions within Sudan, fueling instability.
The situation highlights broader implications for global security. Sudan’s civil war has drawn regional and international stakeholders, creating a complex web of alliances and rivalries. The AU’s ability to mediate this crisis will test its credibility on the world stage, particularly as it seeks to promote peace and stability across Africa. The summit’s outcome could set a precedent for addressing similar conflicts in the region.
This matters because Sudan’s prolonged conflict risks further destabilizing an already volatile region. It underscores the interconnected nature of global security challenges, where local wars can escalate into regional instability with international repercussions. The AU’s efforts to resolve this crisis are not only crucial for Sudan but also for maintaining peace and cooperation across Africa and beyond.
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Originally published on France 24 on 2/15/2026