The United Nations is calling for a cease-fire in South Sudan to give peace talks a chance.  At least 1,000 people have died since fighting erupted last month between followers of the President and those of is rebellious deputy, pitting ethnic groups against each other.

The head of the UN peacekeeping mission Hilde Johnson says the humanitarian situation was worsening.

“Violence has been committed by both sides. Unfortunately, elements on both sides have exploited the situation and have fuelled ethnic tension,” Johnson said.

Both sides have sent delegations to talks in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, each arriving on Wednesday.  But so far the rebels have not agreed to end fighting.  President Salva Kiir declared a state of emergency for the states of Unity and Jonglei, which include the rebel-held towns of Bor and Benitu, the scene of recent fighting and scores of civilian deaths.