New Delhi: The United Kingdom has condemned the occupation of Goma and other territories in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) by the M23 and Rwanda Defence Forces (RDF). In a statement released on Thursday, the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) spokesperson called the occupation an “unacceptable breach of DRC’s sovereignty and the UN Charter” and warned that it poses a “fundamental risk to regional stability.”
According to the release, the UK has consistently called for the immediate withdrawal of all RDF from Congolese territory. On 26 January, the Foreign Secretary informed President Kagame that an attack on Goma would elicit a robust international response. Similarly, on January 29, Lord Collins, the UK Minister for Africa, conveyed to the Rwandan High Commissioner that Rwanda’s actions in eastern DRC were unacceptable. Furthermore, he also expressed deep concern over reports of M23 and RDF advancing through South Kivu towards Bukavu.
The humanitarian situation in the region, already dire before the latest offensive by the M23 and RDF, has become critical, the statement read. The UK estimates that over 800,000 people in the area who were previously prioritized for support may no longer receive vital food and nutritional assistance. The FCDO spokesperson urged all parties to immediately cease hostilities, facilitate humanitarian access, and return to inclusive diplomatic talks, emphasizing that African-led processes are key to finding a solution. The UK, alongside international partners, is actively considering next steps, including reviewing all UK support to Rwanda, it added.