WASHINGTON (Reuters) - President Barack Obama's national security adviser Susan Rice on Thursday urged warring leaders in South Sudan to end their conflict and establish a transitional government.
"The government and rebels are committing appalling crimes against innocent women, children, and the elderly. President (Salva) Kiir and (rebel leader) Riek Machar and their cronies are personally responsible for this new war and self-inflicted disaster," Rice said.
"The United States, along with the international community, will punish those determined to drive South Sudan into the abyss," Rice said in a video message marking the fourth anniversary of South Sudan's Independence Day.