New York: The United Nations Security Council has called for Rwanda’s military to cease its alleged support for the M23 rebel group operating in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
The resolution, drafted by France, was unanimously adopted by the 15-member council on Friday, emphasizing the need for diplomatic dialogue between the DRC and Rwanda to resolve the ongoing conflict.
The resolution also urged the immediate withdrawal of all foreign military forces from Congolese territory without conditions. France’s Ambassador to the U.N., Nicolas de Riviere, stressed that the decision sends a strong message that a military solution is not the answer to the crisis.
Meanwhile, the United States imposed sanctions on Thursday against key figures accused of fueling the violence in the DRC. Among those targeted were Rwanda’s Minister of State for Regional Integration, James Kabarebe, as well as Lawrence Kanyuka Kingston, spokesperson for the Congo River Alliance, and the M23 rebel group itself. U.S. Deputy Representative to the U.N., Dorothy Shea, stated that these sanctions aim to ensure accountability for those involved in the unrest.
The DRC’s U.N. representative, Zenon Mukongo Ngay, welcomed the resolution and expressed gratitude toward France and the U.S. for their support. However, Rwanda’s U.N. envoy, Ernest Rwamucyo, described the situation in eastern DRC as highly complex and called for a broader, more inclusive approach to resolving the conflict.
Rwandan officials have rejected accusations of backing M23 and dismissed the U.S. sanctions. Foreign Minister Olivier Jean Patrick Nduhungirehe criticized the measures as baseless and ineffective in promoting regional stability.
The M23 rebel group has continued to seize key areas in eastern DRC, exacerbating tensions between the two neighboring countries. The international community is closely monitoring the situation, urging diplomatic engagement to prevent further escalation.
