European Union Blocks Sudanese Gold Imports as War Rages

The European Union has introduced a ban on the purchase, import, and transfer of gold from Sudan as part of efforts to cut off financial resources fueling the country’s ongoing conflict.

Announced by the European Council on Monday, the new sanctions also prohibit the sale, supply, transfer, and export of mercury and cyanide to Sudan—chemicals commonly used in gold mining.

The restrictions include specific exemptions for humanitarian assistance, public health emergencies, and disaster relief operations.

Gold has emerged as a crucial source of funding for both the Sudanese Armed Forces and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces as the conflict continues.

Since the war erupted in 2023, the violence has claimed tens of thousands of lives and force