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Washington D.C. – An investigation by Reuters has revealed an alarming link between companies associated with a U.S. Army veteran, Steven Shaulis, and the operation of Boeing aircraft used by logistics hubs supported by the UAE-backed Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in Sudan. The RSF, a militia group in Sudan, has been accused of various human rights abuses, including the involvement in the conflict in Darfur and the dispersal of a pro-democracy sit-in in Khartoum in 2019.
According to sources and documents obtained by Reuters, several companies, including Shaulis’ companies, have been contracted by Boeing to provide logistical support for the aircraft. Boeing has been contracted by an unidentified client to provide transportation services for logistical hubs used by the RSF. The logistics hubs, primarily in Sudan, serve as key supply centers for military operations and are a crucial component of the RSF’s logistical network.
The ties between Steven Shaulis’ companies and Boeing raise concerns about the U.S. military supply chain and potential human rights violations. Shaulis, a U.S. Army veteran, has been involved with several companies, including a freight forwarding firm based in New Jersey and a logistics company based in Georgia. Both companies have been listed as Boeing’s contractors.
When reached for comment, Boeing stated that it takes the concerns regarding its supply chain seriously and will investigate the claims of support for the UAE-backed militia. Reuters also obtained communications that suggest Shaulis’ companies were directly involved in supporting the operation of the Boeing aircraft.
Human rights groups and advocacy organizations have been critical of the RSF’s involvement in Sudan’s ongoing conflict, citing numerous instances of abuses. Human Rights Watch has called on governments to halt military aid and supplies to the RSF.
In response to these allegations, U.S. officials have declined to comment on the specific case or the involvement of Shaulis’ companies. The U.S. has previously suspended military aid to Sudan over its failure to implement democratic reforms. However, it is unclear whether this includes the supply of goods and services to the RSF.
This latest revelation highlights concerns about U.S. involvement in Sudan and the country’s complex web of alliances and rivalries. It also underscores the pressing need for greater scrutiny of the U.S. supply chain in the wake of allegations of potential wrongdoing and human rights abuses.