The United States has reiterated its concern over the ongoing violence in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), calling for an immediate cessation of hostilities and respect for the country’s sovereignty. The remarks were delivered by John Kelley, Acting U.S. Alternate Representative to the United Nations, during a Security Council briefing on the Great Lakes region held on April 16.
Kelley condemned the continued violence in the eastern DRC, particularly actions carried out by the M23 rebel group. “We urge all parties to immediately cease hostilities and to hold accountable those responsible for human rights abuses,” he said.
Citing UN Security Council Resolution 2773, Kelley called for the complete withdrawal of M23 from territories it has seized. He also urged Rwanda to end its support for the group and to withdraw its troops from Congolese territory.
“We are encouraged by M23 and RDF withdrawal of forces from Walikale,” Kelley noted, while stressing the need for all regional actors to respect the DRC’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
He welcomed Kinshasa’s openness to direct dialogue with M23 and expressed support for an African-led peace initiative, stating that it remains “the most viable path toward a lasting solution.”
Kelley highlighted the need for enhanced coordination between regional and UN mechanisms to avoid duplication of efforts and to prevent the manipulation of peace processes. “We reject any action by the parties to delay commitments, amass negotiating leverage, or distract the international community from further escalation,” he said.
Special Envoy Huang Xia was also commended for his efforts in supporting regional peace processes. Kelley noted that the Peace, Security and Cooperation Framework, signed in 2013, has yet to achieve its goal of ending recurring cycles of violence in the region.
“The United States remains committed to supporting an end to this conflict,” he said, adding that a recent high-level U.S. delegation to the region underscored Washington’s commitment to peace and stability in the Great Lakes.
Kelley concluded by emphasizing the region’s potential, stating that lasting peace is key to unlocking shared prosperity across the Great Lakes.
