Sudan: October 25, 2002

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The government and rebels accused each other of violating the truce. The accusations are probably true, as both the government and rebels have problems keeping in touch with their combat units. And on both sides, the commanders of combat units tend to operate with a great deal of independence. Indeed, units on both sides are often indistinguishable from the bandits that are sometimes encountered in the bush. The peace talks are working mainly because the US has taken sides. Millions of dollars in assistance are going to rebel organizations and money of Sudanese organizations, suspected of being involved in terrorist operations, is being blocked. The US also enacted a law that calls for sanctions against the Sudanese government if the government did not negotiate with the rebels in good faith.