South Sudan peace talks on hold after disagreements between rebels and government

ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia – A resumption of peace talks to end South Sudan's violence and political impasse appears to be on hold.

Rebels who have been fighting South Sudan's government since mid-December say they won't participate in new talks unless three conditions are met, including the withdrawal of Ugandan troops from South Sudan.

Rebel negotiator Gen. Taban Deng said South Sudan has been in violation of a cease-fire deal agreed to last month and that all political prisoners have not been released. He said rebels would pull out of talks if their demands aren't met by Tuesday.

A top mediator, Seyoum Mesfin, said he hoped talks would begin Tuesday. He said seven political prisoners who were released say they want to enter the talks as a third party, further complicating the talks.