International powers to mount pressure on South Sudan to end civil war

International powers including the African Union, United Nations, US and China will mount pressure on South Sudan's leaders to end the civil war, to kickstart stalled peace talks.

The last attempt broke down last month with rebel forces accusing regional nations of bias. The UN Security Council has passed a resolution paving the way for targeted sanctions.

Now diplomats say they have a plan   to bring in extra powers to add pressure. The new formula will bring African peer pressure on the parties, as well as the regional block to close ranks.

South Sudan won independence from the Sudan in 2011, but civil war broke out in December 2013 after its president, Salva Kiir, accused his sacked deputy Riek Machar of attempting a coup.

NEWS24