UN Demands Rwanda Pull Back From Congo, Extends MONUSCO

In a unanimously adopted resolution, the 15-member Security Council condemned a renewed offensive by the M23 rebel group in eastern Congo.

The decision comes amid escalating regional tensions and mounting evidence of cross-border involvement.

Rwanda Urged to Withdraw

The Security Council demanded that Rwanda stop supporting M23 and immediately withdraw any troops operating inside Congolese territory.

Rwanda has repeatedly denied backing the rebels, saying its forces are deployed defensively, while blaming Congolese and Burundian forces for the latest escalation.

The resolution also called on Congolese authorities to end any support for armed groups such as the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR).

M23 Advance and Regional Stakes

The UN action followed a fresh M23 advance in mineral-rich eastern Congo, which has triggered new displacement and heightened fears of regional spillover.

The offensive came shortly after Congolese President Félix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame met U.S. President Donald Trump in Washington, where both leaders reaffirmed commitments to a U.S.-backed peace process.

M23 says it is fighting to protect ethnic Tutsi communities, a claim disputed by Kinshasa and UN officials.

Peacekeeping Mandate Extended

The council voted to extend the mandate of the UN peacekeeping mission in Congo, known as MONUSCO, for another year.

The operation currently deploys nearly 11,000 troops and police across the country.

The renewal reflects concern that a premature drawdown would further destabilize eastern Congo as diplomatic efforts struggle to contain the crisis.