The UK government is highly concerned about escalating tensions in the eastern DRC and is prepared to implement sanctions against Rwanda. Following meetings between Foreign Secretary David Lammy and the DRC and Rwandan leaders, the UK has stated it will cease high-level attendance at Rwandan government events and review its defense assistance to Rwanda until significant progress is made in addressing the conflict.
The United Kingdom has expressed deep concern regarding the situation in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), indicating readiness to implement responsive measures. In a recent press release, the Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office noted that Foreign Secretary David Lammy met with DRC President Félix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame to address escalating tensions.
During these discussions, Foreign Secretary Lammy emphasized that military actions cannot resolve the ongoing conflict and called for an immediate cessation of hostilities. The UK government condemned the recent offensives by the M23 rebel group and the Rwanda Defence Force as unacceptable violations of DRC sovereignty and breaches of the UN Charter.
The Foreign Secretary urged both leaders to actively participate in African-led peace initiatives to reach a sustainable political solution, reiterating commitments made during the February 8 Joint EAC-SADC Summit. The UK remains committed to collaborating with African partners to support these diplomatic efforts.
Until tangible progress is achieved, the UK plans to suspend high-level participation in Rwandan government events, reduce trade activities with Rwanda, and pause direct bilateral financial aid to Rwanda, aside from assistance directed at the most vulnerable populations. Additional measures include potential sanctions, halting defense training for Rwanda, and reviewing export licenses for the Rwanda Defence Force.
In summary, the UK government has identified serious concerns regarding the conflict in the eastern DRC, proposing various measures including coordination of potential sanctions against Rwanda. The call for dialogue and adherence to peace processes reflects a commitment to regional stability, while actions to limit engagement with Rwanda underscore the UK’s stance on violations of sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Original Source: www.worldecr.com
