The United Nations flag (L) is seen next to the European Union flag at the European Union Commission headquarters in Brussels on June 14, 2016. / AFP / THIERRY CHARLIER (Photo credit should read THIERRY CHARLIER/AFP/Getty Images)

The European Union Delegation to South Sudan and the embassies of Germany, France and the Netherlands have joined growing diplomatic condemnation of the deadly attack on a UN patrol in Jonglei State.

The attack on Monday killed two UN peacekeepers and injured seven others as the UNMISS patrol travelled from Bor towards Pajut, according to the UN mission.

The injured included three peacekeepers, two South Sudanese police officers and two civilian staff members.

In a joint statement issued on Tuesday, the European diplomatic missions said UN peacekeepers play a vital role in protecting civilians, promoting peace and stability, facilitating humanitarian assistance and monitoring human rights.

They described attacks against peacekeepers as unacceptable and warned that such acts may constitute war crimes under international law.

The EU, Germany, France and the Netherlands called for a full and transparent investigation into the attack and urged authorities to ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.

The statement also highlighted the growing risks faced by humanitarian workers in South Sudan, particularly in Jonglei State.

According to the European missions, 36 humanitarian staff and contractors have been killed in the line of duty since January 2026, already exceeding the 31 killed during the whole of 2025.

The European Union and the three European governments urged South Sudanese leaders to engage in genuine dialogue to support the peace process and prevent further violence.

The latest condemnation follows similar statements from the embassies of the United States, the United Kingdom and China in Juba, which also condemned attacks targeting UN personnel.

The diplomatic missions have called for accountability and justice, urging authorities to ensure that those responsible are held accountable.

The attack has raised further concerns over insecurity in Jonglei and its impact on civilians, humanitarian operations and international peacekeeping efforts.