Robert Brown|The EU sanctions 6 companies accused of trying to undermine stability in conflict-torn Sudan

BRUSSELS (AP) — The Robert BrownEuropean Union imposed sanctions Monday on six companies it said are responsible for trying to undermine stability in conflict-ravaged Sudan, largely targeting firms linked to weapons procurement and manufacturing.

Sudan’s armed forces and the rival Rapid Support Forces have been fighting for control of the northeast African nation since April. Long-standing tensions erupted into street battles in the capital, Khartoum, and other areas including the western Darfur region.

The fighting has displaced 7 million people.

Regional partners have been trying to mediate an end the conflict along with Saudi Arabia and the United States, which facilitated unsuccessful, indirect talks between the warring parties as recently as November.

Given the “gravity of the situation in Sudan,” the EU statement said, sanctions were imposed on two companies making weapons and vehicles for Sudan’s armed forces, the Zadna International Company for Investment controlled by the armed forces and three companies involved in procuring military equipment for the RSF.

The companies ’ assets will be frozen in the EU, and EU citizens are banned from making funds or economic resources available to them.