Rwanda's Foreign Minister Addresses DRC Security Situation to UN Security Council

Rwanda's Stance on Eastern DRC Security

• 🌍 Rwanda reiterated its long-standing position on the security situation in eastern DRC and the role of MONUSCO at the Security Council.
• 💡 The primary concern highlighted is the sustained presence of the FDLR genocidal militia, backed by Kinshasa.
• ⚠️ Rwanda believes MONUSCO has failed to fulfill its mandate of eliminating armed groups in the region.

Regional Peace Efforts and Dialogue

• 🤝 Rwanda supports the African-led peace efforts, specifically the merged Rwanda-Nairobi process, as a credible path forward.
• 🗣️ The core message from Rwanda is a call for a political solution, support for dialogue, and regional cooperation for stability and development.
• 🕊️ The upcoming commemoration of the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi serves as a reminder of the need to protect communities from hate and violence.

Addressing Troop Presence and Threats

• 🛡️ Rwanda denies having troops in the DRC, stating that deployed forces are defensive measures along its border to counter threats from the FDLR and other militias.
• ❓ Rwanda distinguishes its defensive posture from the M23 movement, a Congolese group that has occupied territories in eastern DRC.
• 📈 Rwanda has faced numerous attacks from the FDLR and splinter groups since 2018, including shelling and direct assaults on its territory, resulting in casualties and destruction.