Militaries of South Sudan, Uganda confirm clash near border

South Sudan’s army has accused Uganda’s army of making a “major incursion” into its territory that led to fighting in which two South Sudanese soldiers were killed. Uganda’s military confirms an “incident” between two armies but says it happened within Uganda.

South Sudan in a statement alleged that Ugandan military crossed border Tuesday in Magwi county in Eastern Equatoria state with heavy artillery and forced small number of South Sudanese forces re to retreat. A counterattack regained control of area, statement said, but one South Sudanese soldier was captured.

South Sudan’s army reiterated its “cordial relations” with Uganda forces but said it was “sdened by chameleonic behaviors of that army,” spokesman Lul Ruai Koang wrote.

He later told Associated Press that Ugandan side also saw deaths. He also accused Ugandan forces of killing several or South Sudanese soldiers in two confrontations earlier this year.

Ugandan military spokeswoman Brig. Flavia Byekwaso told AP that “yes, re was an incident” but it happened within Uganda. She asserted that Ugandan forces responded to an incursion by South Sudanese forces who “harassed” local people, and an exchange of fire ensued.

She gave more details, saying neighbouring countries are investigating and seek to resolve issue through diplomatic channels.

two countries have h border disputes in or areas along ir border, but Byekwaso said this incident was t one of m.

Uganda supported South Sudan’s government during its recent five-year civil war and helped to broker a fragile peace. Uganda also has been accused by watchdogs of supplying South Sudan’s military in violation of arms embargoes. Uganda has denied it.

This story has t been edited by www.republicworld.com and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.