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US sanctions recruiters of Colombian fighters for Sudan's RSF
Change
On 10 December 2025 the US Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control designated eight Colombia-linked entities and individuals under sanctions for recruiting and training fighters for Sudan's Rapid Support Forces.
Why it matters
The US Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control designated eight entities and individuals, primarily of Colombian nationality. OFAC identified these actors as recruiting former Colombian soldiers and training personnel to fight for Sudan's Rapid Support Forces. The designations follow the documented travel of hundreds of Colombian mercenaries to Sudan since 2024, including roles as infantry and drone pilots. Colombian public figures have linked the phenomenon to retired soldiers leaving service without sufficient income.
Implications
- · Designated individuals and entities are subject to US sanctions enforcement and related legal and financial limits.
- · Recruitment and training networks named in the designations face restrictions on transactions and services involving US-linked systems and counterparties.
Who is affected
- · Recruiters, intermediaries, and trainers of foreign fighters
- · Former and active Colombian soldiers recruited as mercenaries
- · Rapid Support Forces and associated paramilitary operators
- · Compliance and legal teams at financial institutions handling cross-border transactions
Source
Topics
World & Politics International Affairs Security & Defense Law & Public Safety Regulatory Actions