UNITED NATIONS (Feb. 21, 2025) — The United Nations Security Council on Friday condemned Rwanda’s support for the M23 rebel group and demanded the immediate withdrawal of both from the Democratic Republic of Congo’s (DRC) cities of Goma and Bukavu, marking a significant escalation in efforts to resolve the crisis in eastern DRC.
The resolution, adopted at the Security Council’s 9865th meeting, stressed the need for an unconditional ceasefire and an immediate halt to hostilities. It also called for the M23 to withdraw from all territories under its control, including strategic routes and administrative areas, and for the cessation of military support from the Rwanda Defence Forces (RDF) to the rebel group.
“The M23 shall immediately cease hostilities, withdraw from Goma, Bukavu, and all controlled areas, and reverse the establishment of illegitimate parallel administrations,” the resolution said, emphasizing that such a withdrawal should not be impeded.
The M23, which has made significant territorial gains in recent months, including taking control of Goma and Bukavu, has been accused of receiving support from Rwanda. This has sparked tension between the two nations, with both sides engaged in a diplomatic standoff.
The resolution also condemned violations of international law, including widespread reports of human rights abuses such as sexual violence, forced displacement, and recruitment of child soldiers by M23 forces. “All perpetrators of violations must be held accountable,” the council stated.
In addition to calling for the withdrawal of M23 and RDF forces, the Security Council urged both the DRC and Rwanda to resume diplomatic talks urgently.
The resolution also reaffirmed the role of the United Nations peacekeeping mission (MONUSCO) and other regional organizations, such as the East African Community (EAC) and the African Union (AU), in mediating the crisis. The council expressed support for ongoing regional peace efforts under the Luanda and Nairobi processes.
The Security Council further called on all parties to guarantee humanitarian access to displaced civilians and ensure the safety of humanitarian workers, who have been caught in the crossfire.
As the situation in eastern DRC continues to deteriorate, the international community’s call for a swift resolution has become more urgent. The DRC government has yet to respond to the Security Council’s demands, while Rwanda has not officially commented on the resolution.
