The UK Government has expressed grave concern over the worsening situation in Eastern DRC, calling for an immediate end to hostilities and a political resolution to the conflict. They condemned military actions and announced humanitarian support. Furthermore, the UK outlined steps to reassess its relations with Rwanda until significant progress is made regarding the conflict.
The United Kingdom expressed significant concern regarding the escalating situation in Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). A spokesperson for the UK Government emphasized that a military solution to the conflict is unattainable and called for an immediate cessation of hostilities. Recent military actions, such as the offensives by M23 and the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF), were condemned as violations of DRC’s sovereignty and international law.
Following meetings with Congolese President Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Kagame in February, the UK urges both leaders to actively engage with African-led peace initiatives to achieve a sustainable political resolution. Additionally, commitments made during the Joint EAC-SADC Summit on February 8 must be honored. The UK remains dedicated to cooperating with African nations and international partners to strengthen these efforts.
The humanitarian crisis in Eastern DRC is dire, with nearly one million people displaced and many requiring urgent assistance. All parties involved bear a responsibility to protect those suffering from the conflict’s impact. The Foreign Secretary made it clear that the international community would respond robustly to the ongoing violence, coordinating with G7 nations and the International Contact Group on the Great Lakes to formulate a unified response.
To further support the affected population, the Foreign Secretary announced an additional £14.6 million humanitarian aid package. The UK advocates for immediate hostilities cessation, humanitarian access, adherence to international humanitarian law, and the withdrawal of all Rwandan troops from DRC territory. Furthermore, Rwanda’s pursuit of a military resolution is deemed unacceptable; only political dialogue can resolve these tensions.
The UK will adopt several measures until tangible progress is achieved, which include limiting high-level attendance at events hosted by Rwanda, reducing trade promotion, pausing bilateral aid to the Rwandan government (excluding support for vulnerable populations), considering new sanctions, suspending defense training assistance, and reviewing licenses for arms exports to Rwanda.
These steps underscore the UK’s commitment to fostering a political solution to the conflict and encouraging the DRC to engage in an inclusive dialogue with M23. The UK Government’s policy toward the situation remains under continuous review.
In summary, the UK has expressed deep concerns regarding the unstable situation in Eastern DRC, emphasizing the need for a political solution rather than a military one. They have condemned recent military actions, pledged humanitarian support, and outlined measures to limit engagement with Rwanda until meaningful progress is achieved. The UK continues to advocate for peace initiatives and protection for the vulnerable populations affected by the conflict.
Original Source: www.gov.uk
