Jacobin Radio Behind the News: War and Neocolonialism in Sudan w/ Mosaab Baba
Nov 23, 2025
Mosaab Baba, a researcher and activist focused on Sudanese politics, dives into the complexities of Sudan's civil war, its historical roots, and the role of foreign powers. He highlights the impact of the 2019 uprising, the humanitarian catastrophe, and the external actors prolonging the conflict. Joining him is Jake Adelstein, an investigative journalist in Japan, who reveals insights into the Liberal Democratic Party's power dynamics, the rise of Sanae Takaichi, and the implications of Japan's remilitarization efforts amid economic concerns.
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RSF Originated From Janjaweed
- The RSF evolved from the Janjaweed militias used in Darfur and was later legitimized as a separate force.
- After Bashir's removal in 2019, RSF entered Khartoum as a distinct power, sowing the seeds of the current fight.
U.S. Influence Is Indirect
- The U.S. plays a supporting, indirect role, delegating heavier security engagement to Egypt and the UAE.
- Washington backed regime pressures historically while outsourcing on-the-ground leverage to regional allies.
Humanitarian Catastrophe Undercounted
- The humanitarian crisis is massive: ~12 million displaced and over 20 million needing aid, with likely far higher death tolls.
- Limited access, disease, and hunger make accurate counts impossible and suffering underreported globally.
