The United States has recalled its ambassador to South Sudan for consultations amid a delay in the creation of a transitional unity government by the country's differing political factions.

U.S. State Department spokesperson Morgan Ortagus said in a statement that Ambassador Thomas Hushek's recall is part of the U.S. re-evaluation its "relationship with the Government of South Sudan given the latest developments".

The South Sudan parties had until November 12 to form a unity government, but continued delays in talks resulted in a failure to do so.

South Sudan has been dogged by violence since December 2013, sparked by a feud between President Salva Kiir and Riek Machar, his former deputy president.

President Kiir accused Machar of plotting to overthrow his rule, allegations the latter refuted but then went on to mobilize a rebel force to fight the government.

As pressure continues to mount on the country's factions to create a transitional unity government, South Africa's Deputy President David Mabuza visited Juba last week for talks with the stakeholders.

The African Union and regional bloc IGAD have also urged the country to engage in talks to end the crisis and restore lasting peace in the country.

In its statement on Monday, the U.S. State Department said the country "stands with the people of South Sudan in their pursuit of peace and will work in partnership with the region to support efforts to achieve peace and a successful political transition in South Sudan".

(Source: U.S. State Department)