Mariama Hamani
The controversy ignited in Bujumbura, where Russia’s top diplomat Sergey Lavrov alleged that Ukraine was providing external backing to the AFC/M23 insurgency. This rebel group has seized control of vast territories in the North and South Kivu provinces, deep in the heart of the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Kiev’s response was swift and unequivocal. Ukrainian diplomats dismissed the accusations as a deliberate disinformation campaign orchestrated by the Kremlin to muddy diplomatic waters across the Great Lakes region. « Lavrov’s claims that Ukraine supports the M23 in eastern DRC are baseless fabrications designed to deflect attention from real issues. We officially refute and reject these allegations without reservation. »
Russia accused of mirroring its own tactics
Beyond mere denial, Ukraine is turning the tables on Moscow. Positioning itself as an external actor with no involvement in African conflicts, Kiev highlights Russia’s own destabilizing role on the continent. In a sharp rebuke, Ukrainian officials condemned Moscow’s pattern of arming rebel factions, violating international sanctions, and recruiting African fighters for its war in Ukraine.
« Ukraine does not interfere in African conflicts. Russia, however, does so by fueling instability, violating sanctions, and enlisting African nationals to fight in its war against Ukraine. The double standard is glaring. »
Analyst Heorhii Tykhyi argues that this tactic is part of a long-standing Russian strategy to deflect from its own actions. « Accusing others of what Moscow itself perpetrates is nothing new. The goal is clear: undermine U.S.-led mediation efforts in the Great Lakes and divert attention from Russia’s destructive actions that obstruct peace. » By linking the Congolese conflict to the broader European war, Ukraine underscores the interconnected nature of today’s geopolitical struggles.
As international powers weigh in on the escalating crisis in eastern DRC, the exchange of accusations between global actors reveals the deepening geopolitical dimensions of the conflict. Each side seeks to shape the narrative, framing itself as a peacemaker while assigning blame to others.
DRC urges diplomacy at the UN, champions peaceful resolution
Despite the clashing narratives, the Democratic Republic of the Congo has championed a different approach. Serving as president of the UN Security Council for the month, Kinshasa condemned the ongoing hostilities in Ukraine and their devastating humanitarian toll. During a session chaired by Zénon Mukongo Ngay, Congolese representatives emphasized that military solutions only deepen suffering. They called for strict adherence to international law, civilian protection, and prioritization of dialogue, mediation, and diplomacy to resolve disputes.
The DRC also reaffirmed its commitment to supporting any credible initiative that promotes a just, lasting peace aligned with the UN Charter. Its stance reflects a broader regional plea for de-escalation amid a landscape scarred by recurring violence.
Peace processes stall amid persistent violence
This diplomatic standoff unfolds against a backdrop of fragility in the region. A year after the Washington Agreement was signed at the ministerial level, progress remains elusive. Kinshasa and Kigali continue to interpret the accord differently, impeding its implementation and prolonging instability.
Meanwhile, the humanitarian and security situation in eastern DRC continues to deteriorate. Repeated evaluation meetings have done little to curb violence, particularly in areas under AFC/M23 control. As international actors jockey for influence, the plight of civilians trapped in the crossfire grows ever more dire.
