U.S. Senators Urge Stronger Action on Rwanda-DRC Conflict

A group of five U.S. senators, led by Sen. Tim Kaine, has called on Secretary of State Marco Rubio to strengthen U.S. diplomacy in response to the ongoing conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo.

In a letter dated June 25, the senators warned that fighting intensified after the Washington Accords, with Rwanda-backed M23 advances triggering civilian casualties, mass displacement, and a worsening humanitarian crisis.

The lawmakers also pointed to recent U.S. sanctions and visa restrictions on Rwandan military officials, arguing they demonstrate that the current peace framework remains fragile.

Among their key requests, the senators asked the State Department to explain:

• How it is monitoring the withdrawal of Rwandan forces from eastern DRC.

• What additional diplomatic and accountability measures are being taken.

• How civilians and humanitarian operations are being protected.

• How the U.S. plans to ensure conflict minerals and economic interests do not overshadow peace and security.

The letter concludes that sustained diplomatic pressure, not symbolic agreements, is needed to help end the violence in eastern Congo.

Read Full letter Here