Kurt M. Campbell Deputy Secretary of State | Official Website
The United States has expressed serious concerns over the recent ceasefire violations in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) attributed to the M23 armed group. This group, which is reportedly backed by Rwanda and sanctioned by both the U.S. and the UN, has been active since October 20. The U.S. urges M23 to halt hostilities immediately and withdraw from Walikale territory in North Kivu Province.
Additionally, there is a call for Rwanda to withdraw its Defense Force personnel and equipment from DRC territory. This includes removing surface-to-air missile systems and ceasing GPS disruptions. Furthermore, the U.S. emphasizes that the Government of DRC should stop collaborating with the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR), another group under U.S. and UN sanctions, and take steps towards its demobilization.
Progress has been noted through the Luanda Process, an initiative led by Angolan President João Lourenço. Achievements include operationalizing the Angola-led Reinforced Verification Mechanism, reaching a technical-expert-level agreement concerning FDLR, and disengaging uninvited foreign forces from DRC soil.
The United States calls on all involved parties to honor their commitments under this process. It stresses that all states should respect each other's sovereignty, ensure civilian protection, and hold accountable those responsible for human rights abuses.
