The United States has accused Russia of funding the two warring parties in Sudan during a United Nations meeting on Monday, Jan. 6. This is a step up from previous accusations from U.S. officials, claiming Russia was playing both sides to advance its political objectives.

A U.S. spokesperson for the country’s mission to the UN said they were aware of Russia’s “ongoing interest in Sudan’s gold trade.”

The U.S. further condemned any material support for the warring parties, “whether it be through illicit gold trading or the provision of military equipment.”