The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has strongly condemned the entrance of M23 rebels and the Rwandan Defence Force (RDF) into Bukavu, describing it as a serious violation of the Democratic Republic of Congo’s (DRC) sovereignty and a threat to regional stability.
Violation of Sovereignty and UN Charter
In an official statement, an FCDO spokesperson said:
“The entrance of M23 and the Rwandan Defence Force into Bukavu is a violation of DRC’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, and a breach of the UN Charter. This is a serious escalation that heightens the risk of a wider regional conflict – the human cost of which would be devastating.”
The UK government has urged all parties to respect international law and withdraw military forces from Congolese territory to prevent further instability in the Great Lakes region.
Escalating Humanitarian Crisis in Eastern DRC
The humanitarian situation in eastern DRC has reached a critical level, with close to one million people displaced due to ongoing conflict. The incursion by M23 and RDF forces has severely disrupted aid routes, cutting off essential supplies to hundreds of thousands in need.
Key humanitarian concerns:
- Severe food and water shortages
- Lack of medical aid for displaced populations
- Increased risk of disease outbreaks in overcrowded displacement camps
An FCDO spokesperson stated:
“It is appalling that vital aid routes have been cut off. All parties must restore humanitarian access as a matter of urgency.”
UK Calls for Immediate Ceasefire and Withdrawal of Rwandan Forces
The UK has joined the international community in calling for an immediate cessation of hostilities and demanding the full withdrawal of Rwandan troops from Congolese soil.
The FCDO emphasized that there is no military solution to the crisis and stressed the importance of a return to diplomatic efforts through African-led peace initiatives.
The UK has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting regional stability efforts and strengthening dialogue through mechanisms such as the Nairobi and Luanda peace processes.
International Reactions and Regional Concerns
The situation has drawn widespread condemnation from global and regional actors, with concerns that the conflict could spiral into a full-scale regional war.
? International responses include:
- United Nations (UN): Condemned the violation of DRC’s sovereignty and called for de-escalation.
- African Union (AU): Urged both Rwanda and DRC to engage in diplomatic dialogue.
- United States and European Union: Expressed deep concern over rising tensions and warned of further instability in the region.
For further insights and updates on the evolving crisis, visit UN News and International Crisis Group.
What Happens Next?
As diplomatic efforts intensify, the focus remains on preventing further bloodshed and restoring humanitarian aid access. The UK has pledged continued support for peace-building initiatives and urged all parties to uphold their commitments under regional peace accords.
Key Developments to Watch:
Possible diplomatic interventions from African regional bodies
Humanitarian efforts to reopen aid routes
International response, including potential sanctions or peacekeeping measures
