The UK has expressed its grave concern over the escalating conflict in Eastern DRC, emphasizing the need for a political rather than military resolution. Following meetings with Congolese and Rwandan leaders, the UK outlined measures to support peace efforts and announced additional humanitarian aid. The responsibility for protecting affected civilians was also stressed amidst calls for an immediate ceasefire and territorial respect.
The United Kingdom has released a statement addressing the troubling situation in Eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). A spokesperson for the UK Government expressed deep concern and mentioned that the Foreign Secretary recently met with President Tshisekedi in Kinshasa and President Kagame in Kigali to discuss the conflict.
The Foreign Secretary emphasized that a military solution is not feasible, urging for an immediate halt to hostilities. The recent advances by M23 and the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF), particularly the capture of Goma and Bukavu, were condemned as unacceptable violations of DRC’s sovereignty and a breach of the United Nations Charter.
Moreover, he called for both leaders to participate earnestly in African-led peace initiatives to establish a lasting political resolution, adhering to commitments made at the Joint EAC-SADC Summit held on February 8. The UK expressed its intent to consult with African and other partners to enhance support for peace efforts.
The humanitarian crisis in eastern DRC is acute, with nearly a million individuals displaced and many requiring urgent assistance. The UK urged all parties involved to safeguard the welfare of those affected by the conflict.
During this visit, the Foreign Secretary announced an additional £14.6 million in humanitarian aid to assist the most affected populations in Eastern DRC. The UK has called for an immediate cessation of hostilities, unhindered humanitarian access, adherence to international humanitarian standards, constructive engagement in peace talks, and the withdrawal of RDF from Congolese territory.
To maintain pressure, the UK plans to take several measures until substantial progress is observed: ceasing high-level event participation with the Rwandan Government, limiting trade promotion, pausing direct financial aid (excluding support for the most vulnerable), coordinating with allies on potential sanctions, suspending future defense training assistance to Rwanda, and reviewing export licenses related to the RDF.
Rwanda is acknowledged to have security concerns; however, the UK firmly believes these concerns must not lead to military resolutions. Instead, a political solution is deemed essential. The UK encourages DRC to engage with M23 within an inclusive dialogue framework and commits to reviewing its policies moving forward.
The UK strongly condemns military actions in Eastern DRC and calls for a political resolution to the ongoing conflicts. With significant humanitarian needs and rising tensions, the UK emphasizes the importance of peace processes and international support, pledging additional aid and outlining actions against Rwanda until a substantial resolution is achieved. Continued engagement with affected parties underscores the necessity for inclusive dialogue in restoring stability.
Original Source: www.gov.uk
