Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) President Félix Tshisekedi spoke with U.S. Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken on Friday to address the escalating crisis in eastern DRC. During the talk, Antony Blinken reiterated that M23 and the Rwandan Defense Forces must immediately cease hostilities and withdraw from their positions in the region.
State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller stated that Blinken expressed appreciation for President Tshisekedi’s commitment to the Luanda Process, led by Angolan President João Lourenco, and commended his willingness to engage in talks on December 15.
During their conversation, Blinken encouraged Tshisekedi to continue efforts to neutralize the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR), a prominent armed group in the region. The Secretary also welcomed Tshisekedi’s collaboration with former Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta, who has offered to mediate talks with M23 to help resolve the ongoing crisis.
The U.S. remains committed to supporting efforts toward lasting peace and stability in eastern DRC and the broader Great Lakes region.
Bd-pratidin English/ Jisan Al Jubair
