UNITED NATIONS: The UN Security Council on Friday authorized the deployment of a robust force of 4,000 troops to South Sudan after heavy fighting set back efforts to end the country’s devastating war.

The council adopted a US-drafted resolution that also threatened to impose an arms embargo on South Sudan if the government blocks the deployment.

Eleven countries in the 15-member council backed the new force. China, Russia, Egypt and Venezuela abstained from the vote.

African leaders called for the regional force to secure Juba and help protect UN bases after the flare-up of violence in Juba in early July that left hundreds dead including two Chinese peacekeepers.

Ethiopia, Kenya and Rwanda are expected to contribute the bulk of the new troops who will be authorized to “use all necessary means, including undertaking robust action where necessary” to fulfil their mandate.—AFP