The G7 Foreign Ministers and the High Representative of the European Union have issued a firm condemnation of the escalating violence in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), particularly the advances of the Rwanda-backed M23 armed group.
In a strongly worded statement, the foreign ministers of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States, along with the EU’s top diplomat, denounced the recent capture of Minova, Saké, and Goma by M23 forces, calling for an immediate cessation of hostilities. “We urge M23 and the Rwanda Defense Force (RDF) to halt their offensive and prioritize the protection of civilians,” the statement declared.
The G7 leaders reiterated their opposition to any direct or indirect support for M23 and other non-state armed groups operating in the DRC. “This aggression is a blatant violation of the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the DRC. The expansion of M23’s operations into South Kivu must not be tolerated,” they asserted.
The renewed violence has significantly worsened the humanitarian crisis in the region, with tens of thousands of civilians displaced from their homes. “Since the resurgence of M23 in January, the civilian toll has been devastating. The humanitarian situation is deteriorating rapidly,” the statement read.
The G7 called for immediate and unrestricted access for humanitarian aid to affected populations. “The safe passage of humanitarian assistance must be guaranteed. Humanitarian workers must be assured of their security,” the statement emphasized.
Additionally, the ministers urged all parties involved to return to diplomatic negotiations and fully honor commitments made under the Luanda Process, which seeks to de-escalate tensions in the region. “A peaceful and negotiated resolution remains the only viable path forward. M23 must withdraw from all occupied areas,” they stated.
Expressing unwavering support for the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the DRC (MONUSCO), the G7 leaders underscored the importance of its mandate in protecting civilians and stabilizing the region. “Any attack against peacekeeping forces is unacceptable,” they stated, extending condolences to the families of fallen MONUSCO and Southern African Development Community Mission (SAMIDRC) personnel.
The statement also condemned recent attacks on diplomatic missions in Kinshasa and called on the Congolese government to uphold its international obligation to protect foreign diplomats and their premises. “The safety and security of diplomatic personnel must be ensured at all costs,” the ministers urged.
As the crisis in the eastern DRC deepens, the G7 and the EU reaffirm their commitment to supporting peace, stability, and humanitarian efforts in the region, emphasizing the urgent need for coordinated international action to prevent further escalation.