US blacklists S.Sudan general and rebel force leader

South Sudanese soldiers drive armoured personel carriers in Juba on May 16, 2014. By Charles Lomodong (AFP/File)

Washington (AFP) - The United States slapped sanctions on two senior South Sudan officials Thursday, accusing them of waging violence in the stricken nation.

Major General Santino Deng Wol, a commander in the South Sudan People's Liberation Army and rebel commander James Koang Chuol are accused of violating ceasefire deals signed by the warring parties.

South Sudan has been embroiled in civil war since last December, with forces loyal to President Salva Kiir pitted against ragtag militias fighting for former Vice President Riek Machar.

The UN warns of a massive famine looming, and said 4 million people are at risk of starvation.

The Treasury said both men are guilty of breaking previous peace deals and dragging out the war.

"Both of the individuals we are designating today are prolonging the violent conflict in South Sudan and engaging in reprehensible violence,” said David Cohen, Under Secretary for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence.

"The United States, along with other members of the international community, will continue to shine a spotlight on violent acts committed by those on both sides of the conflict in South Sudan," he added.

The sanctions freeze any assets on US territory of the two and ban Americans from any business dealings with them.

Impoverished but oil-rich South Sudan gained its independence from Sudan in July 2011.

UN and international officials have repeatedly sought to help put in place a lasting ceasefire, but three successive peace agreements have collapsed.