The United States has expressed deep concern over the findings of the United Nations Group of Experts’ midterm report on the ongoing conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), released in December 2024. The U.S. has voiced strong support for the report, which accurately identifies the root causes of the violence and instability that have plagued the region for years.
The report, which closely aligns with U.S. assessments, highlights the continued involvement of external actors, including Rwanda, in exacerbating the conflict. The United States condemns the presence of Rwandan troops in the DRC, as well as Rwanda’s backing of the M23 militia group, which has been sanctioned by both the U.S. and the United Nations for its role in fueling violence in the region. In particular, the report underscores the use of advanced military technologies, including surface-to-air missiles and anti-tank missiles, which are contributing to the instability.
A key point of concern for the United States, as outlined in the report, is the ongoing interference with UN operations. The M23 group, with support from Rwanda, has been accused of using GPS jamming and spoofing tactics, which have grounded vital MONUSCO (United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the DRC) air operations. These actions have not only disrupted the ability of the UN mission to carry out its peacekeeping duties but have also endangered the lives of humanitarian workers and blocked essential aid to civilians in the North Kivu province.
“We condemn in the strongest terms the unlawful actions that continue to impede peace and humanitarian relief in the region,” said U.S. Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller. “Rwanda’s support for M23 and its destabilizing actions must come to an immediate end. The United States is deeply concerned about the continued use of surface-to-air missile systems and other weaponry by armed groups in the DRC, which are obstructing life-saving operations by UN personnel and humanitarian organizations.”
In addition to these external influences, the report also sheds light on troubling cooperation between the DRC’s armed forces and the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR), another group designated as a terrorist organization by both the U.S. and the UN. The FDLR has long been accused of perpetrating violence in the region, and the U.S. has strongly urged Congolese authorities to cease any collaboration with the group.
“We urge the government of the DRC to immediately end any cooperation with the FDLR,” Miller stated. “While we welcome the DRC’s commitment to working with MONUSCO to neutralize the FDLR in a manner consistent with international humanitarian and human rights law, it is clear that peace will not be achieved without meaningful dialogue between the DRC government and armed groups, including M23.”
The United States has repeatedly emphasized the need for a comprehensive and inclusive peace process in the DRC, one that involves all relevant stakeholders, including armed groups. The ongoing violence in the region has displaced millions, caused untold suffering, and hindered the DRC’s development. The U.S. continues to support efforts by the DRC government, MONUSCO, and other international partners to bring about lasting peace, stability, and respect for human rights in the region.
As the DRC continues to grapple with complex political, military, and humanitarian challenges, the U.S. remains committed to supporting the efforts of the United Nations and regional actors to achieve peace and hold those responsible for violence accountable. The United States calls for an immediate cessation of hostilities and the prioritization of diplomatic solutions to the crisis.