The United States has issued a stern condemnation of the ongoing attacks by Rwandan forces and M23 rebels in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), urging an immediate ceasefire to restore stability in the region.
Speaking during an emergency session of the UN Security Council, interim UN Ambassador Dorothy Shea criticised the renewed hostilities in Goma and Sake, which have intensified following unsuccessful truce negotiations.
“We condemn in the strongest terms Rwanda’s and M23 hostilities on Goma and attacks on Sake,” Shea declared, noting that the US would consider using all tools at its disposal to hold accountable those responsible for perpetuating armed conflict and instability in the DRC.
Shea highlighted the concerning use of advanced weaponry by Rwandan forces, including GPS jamming systems, which have endangered both UN peacekeepers and civilians fleeing the violence.
She called for an immediate halt to such actions and denounced the indiscriminate use of artillery near refugee sites, which has exacerbated the humanitarian crisis.
The US ambassador urged leaders in the DRC, Rwanda, and M23, as well as other armed groups, to issue clear orders prohibiting attacks on civilians.
Shea also emphasised the need to respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the DRC, calling on all actors to cease support for armed groups, whether local or foreign.
“Congolese and Rwandan leadership, as well as leaders of the M23 and other armed groups, must issue clear orders not to target civilians,” Shea said.
“All actors must also respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the DRC and put an end to all forms of support to armed groups, whether Congolese or foreign.”
The statement marks the first official US response to the escalating crisis under the new administration.
