UK condemns drone strikes on civilians, urges ceasefire in eastern Congo conflict
The United Kingdom has publicly condemned the rising number of drone strikes targeting civilians and humanitarian personnel in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). These attacks exacerbate an already dire humanitarian situation amid ongoing armed conflict involving the M23 rebel group and external support from Rwandan forces.
The UK urges all parties involved to engage fully with international mediation processes led by the United States, Qatar, and the African Union, emphasizing that negotiated agreements must lead to real improvements in security on the ground. The UK highlighted the importance of full compliance with United Nations Security Council Resolution 2773, calling explicitly for an unconditional ceasefire and the immediate withdrawal of foreign military support to M23 rebels.
The persistence of violence from drone strikes threatens thousands of civilians caught in conflict zones and hampers humanitarian efforts to provide aid. The UK supports the UN Secretary-General’s plan for a phased, conditions-based drawdown of the UN peacekeeping mission MONUSCO, contingent on security gains.
This statement signals the UK’s commitment to reducing civilian harm and supporting peace initiatives in central Africa, while warning that failure to curb these attacks risks deeper instability and prolonged suffering for vulnerable populations.
