Tshisekedi Urges Russia to Enforce UN Resolutions on Rwanda Withdrawal from Congo

Democratic Republic of the Congo President Félix Tshisekedi has called on Russia to fully support the implementation of United Nations Security Council resolutions demanding an end to Rwandan involvement in the conflict in eastern Congo.

Speaking on Thursday at the third Russia-Africa Summit in Moscow, Tshisekedi urged Russia, in its capacity as a permanent member of the UN Security Council, to back Resolutions 2773 and 2808.

“Security Council Resolutions 2773 and 2808 set out clear requirements: the cessation of hostilities; the withdrawal of the M23 from the areas it occupies, whatever name it may use; an end to support provided by the Rwandan Defense Forces to this movement and their withdrawal from Congolese territory; an end to all support for armed groups; and the implementation of commitments relating to the neutralization of the FDLR,” Tshisekedi said.

He noted that the resolutions were adopted unanimously and therefore also represented the voice of the Russian Federation.

“I therefore call on Russia, in its capacity as a permanent member of the Security Council, to fully support their implementation and mediation efforts,” he added.

Tshisekedi said the DRC was fulfilling its own obligations and expected the same level of commitment from all parties.

He highlighted the suffering of populations in eastern Congo and stressed that protection of civilians, humanitarian access, and the voluntary, safe and dignified return of displaced persons and refugees must guide all stakeholders.

The Congolese president also linked regional peace to economic cooperation, stating that a peaceful Great Lakes region would become an area of economic partnership that respects sovereignty and benefits all, in line with the ambitions of the Russia-Africa partnership.

The appeal came amid ongoing fighting in eastern DRC involving the M23 rebel group, which Kinshasa accuses Rwanda of supporting, a charge Kigali has consistently denied.

Diplomatic efforts continue through the Washington and Doha processes.

By Oyinkansola Shittu.