U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, urged the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) to remain dedicated to the Luanda Process, a diplomatic initiative aimed at reducing escalating tensions with Rwanda. During a meeting on Monday, October 7, with DRC’s Foreign Minister, Therese Kayikwamba Wagner, Thomas-Greenfield highlighted the necessity for the DRC to adhere to its peace agreements, particularly the technical de-escalation plan established with Rwanda.
The Luanda Process, which has received international support, serves as a framework to address long-standing disputes between the DRC and Rwanda. Thomas-Greenfield emphasized that the plan is vital for regional stability, stating, “We encourage the DRC to remain steadfast in its commitment to the Luanda Process and to fully implement the agreed-upon de-escalation plan with Rwanda.” She asserted that continued dialogue between the two nations is crucial for maintaining peace in the region.
Rwanda’s Foreign Minister, Olivier Nduhungirehe, echoed Thomas-Greenfield’s sentiments on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), stressing the importance of DRC’s commitment to the ongoing process.
The relationship between the two countries has been fraught with accusations, as Rwanda has alleged that the DRC supports the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR), a militia linked to the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi. Conversely, the DRC has accused Rwanda of backing the M23 rebels, an allegation that Rwanda has consistently denied.
For years, Rwanda has called on the Congolese government to sever ties with the FDLR, highlighting the group’s persistent threat to regional security. Tensions have escalated in recent months as M23 rebels have made significant advances toward Goma, the capital of North Kivu, capturing strategic positions, including the Rubaya mines. The resurgence of the M23 has been attributed to the DRC’s decision to expel the East African Community Regional Force in December 2023, along with a perceived failure to protect the Congolese Tutsi population.
The ongoing conflict has resulted in a humanitarian crisis, with Rwanda hosting over 100,000 Congolese refugees, many of whom have resided in Rwandan camps for nearly three decades. The international community continues to monitor the situation closely, urging both nations to prioritize dialogue and cooperation to foster stability in the region.
