UK Demands End to External Support for Armed Groups in DR Congo Conflict

The United Kingdom (UK) has called for an immediate halt to all external support for armed groups in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) as tensions rise in the Great Lakes region.

The fragile security situation in the eastern DRC, particularly regarding the resurgence of the M23 rebel group, was a key focus point during a recent United Nations Security Council meeting.

Deputy Permanent Representative of the United Kingdom to the UN, James Kariuki, urged the DRC’s President Félix Tshisekedi and his Rwandan counterpart, Paul Kagame, to engage in direct talks to de-escalate the growing conflict between the two nations.

“The UK is deeply concerned about the deteriorating situation in the DRC and the wider region,” stated Kariuki. “We condemn the M23’s continued offensive and call on all external actors to cease support for armed groups operating within the DRC.”

The eastern DRC has grappled with instability for decades due to the activities of numerous armed groups. 

Despite ongoing military operations and a declared state of siege, the situation remains precarious, especially with the recent resurgence of the M23 rebels, allegedly backed by Rwanda.

The UK’s call for an end to external support for armed groups highlights the international community’s growing concern about the potential for a wider regional conflict.

Source: DRC News Today