UK Raises Alarm Over Eastern DRC Situation, Advocates for Peaceful Resolution

The UK has articulated deep concerns regarding the Eastern DRC situation, emphasizing the need for immediate cessation of hostilities and political solutions. The Foreign Secretary’s meetings in Africa promoted engagement in peace processes and highlighted humanitarian crises. The UK has outlined specific measures and humanitarian support while calling for Rwanda’s military withdrawal.

The United Kingdom has expressed grave concerns regarding the situation in Eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). The Foreign Secretary recently met with President Tshisekedi in Kinshasa and President Kagame in Kigali, asserting that military solutions are unacceptable and that hostilities must cease immediately. The recent advancements by M23 and the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF), especially the capture of Goma and Bukavu, constitute serious violations of DRC’s sovereignty and the UN Charter.

During discussions, the Foreign Secretary emphasized the necessity for both leaders to sincerely engage in African-led peace processes, adhering to commitments made during the Joint EAC-SADC Summit. The UK is keen to assist these initiatives in collaboration with African and international partners.

The humanitarian crisis in Eastern DRC is alarming, with nearly one million individuals displaced and many more requiring urgent assistance. All involved parties bear a responsibility to protect the affected populace.

The UK has affirmed that the international community will respond robustly to escalating tensions. Recent collaborative efforts with G7 allies and the International Contact Group on the Great Lakes have aimed at resolving the conflict, leveraging opportunities within the UN Security Council and Human Rights Council.

Additionally, the Foreign Secretary announced an extra £14.6 million humanitarian aid package for those suffering in Eastern DRC. The UK calls for an immediate halt to hostilities, unfettered humanitarian access, adherence to international humanitarian law, and the withdrawal of RDF from Congolese territory.

To address the current situation, the UK will implement several measures: cease high-level attendance at Rwandan events, limit trade promotion efforts with Rwanda, pause direct financial aid (except for vulnerable populations), coordinate potential new sanctions, suspend future defense training, and review export licenses for the RDF.

While acknowledging Rwanda’s security concerns, the UK maintains that military resolutions are untenable, advocating instead for a political solution. The UK urges DRC to engage M23 as part of an inclusive dialogue to address this ongoing conflict.

In summary, the UK’s response to the crisis in Eastern DRC emphasizes the need for immediate military cessation, humanitarian support, and political engagement. The government’s new measures reflect deep concerns about the violations occurring in the region while asserting international collaboration to address the humanitarian needs and foster a peaceful resolution.

Original Source: www.gov.uk