At least 50 people were killed in this week's clashes between the South Sudan's army and militias in the town of Malakal, UN officials say.
One UN official said 14 civilians and scores of combatants had been killed, while another put the figure at about 50 people altogether.
The army and a militia previously backed by Khartoum exchanged heavy gunfire in the volatile town.
Correspondents say tensions between north and south remain high.
A 21-year civil war ended in 2005 with a peace deal.
But the two sides remain in dispute about oil-rich areas along the border.
Under the deal, South Sudan enjoys considerable autonomy until a referendum is held in 2011 on whether or not the largely Christian and animist south should secede from the Muslim-dominated north.
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More News On The Conflict In Southern Sudan
Around 50 killed in Sudan fighting: UN -- AFP
UN radio: Dozens killed in clashes in south Sudan -- AP
Militia clash with south Sudan army in Malakal -- Reuters
Heavy fighting breaks out in Malakal - sources -- New Sudan Vision
Militia leader returns to Khartoum after violent standoff -- Sudan Vision
South Sudan Accuses Army of Seeking New Civil War -- Voice Of America
South Sudan accuses army of trying to restart war -- International Herald Tribune