South Sudan general among dozens killed in attack on UN helicopter

President Slava Kir appeals for calm while analysts say escalating tensions could lead to full-blown conflict

A South Sudanese general and dozens of soldiers have been killed after a United Nations helicopter trying to evacuate them from the northern town of Nasir came under attack, the government has said.

The UN said Friday's incident, which could deal a blow to an already fragile peace process, was utterly abhorrent" and a possible war crime.