UN Security Council urges Rwanda to re-engage in peace talks amid escalating crisis in eastern DRC

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New York, USA – The United Nations Security Council convened an emergency session yesterday to address the worsening crisis in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), with a sharp focus on Rwanda’s alleged support for the M23 rebel group. Speaking on behalf of the DRC, Kayquamba Wagner strongly condemned Rwanda’s actions, emphasizing that M23’s advances threaten the legitimacy of the Congolese government.

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She also rectified Rwanda’s recent extension of condolences for fallen peacekeepers, asserting that they were not casualties of conflict but victims of targeted attacks. The DRC reiterated its openness to dialogue but rejected Rwanda’s attempts to elevate M23 as a legitimate negotiating entity.

The humanitarian crisis in Eastern DRC remains dire, with over a million civilians displaced and essential infrastructure, including Goma’s airport, effectively cut off. Russia backed the DRC’s stance, firmly condemning the M23 offensive and calling for an immediate withdrawal of rebel forces.

Russian representatives stressed that military intervention alone would not resolve the crisis and reaffirmed the importance of diplomatic negotiations under the Luanda process.

The discussion also underscored concerns about external actors exploiting the DRC’s rich mineral resources, further fueling instability in the region.

Despite urgent calls for action, divisions persist within the Security Council over how to hold Rwanda accountable for its alleged involvement. The DRC called on the international community to move beyond verbal condemnations and take decisive measures to curb foreign interference and protect civilians.

Meanwhile, the Congolese government affirmed its commitment to peace talks, urging Rwanda to return to the negotiation table. With diplomatic efforts at an impasse, the session highlighted the pressing need for regional cooperation to prevent further escalation and avoid a full-scale interstate conflict.