Russia urges DRC conflict parties to honor peace commitments

Russia says real progress in ending the conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo will depend on whether the parties carry out, in good faith, the commitments they have already made under ongoing peace efforts.

Speaking during a United Nations Security Council briefing on the Great Lakes region on April 15, Deputy Permanent Representative Anna Evstigneeva said diplomatic initiatives will have limited effect unless agreements are implemented on the ground.

Evstigneeva described the crisis in eastern DRC as a major regional challenge and said continuing violence remains an obstacle to stable relations among neighboring states. She also pointed to the gap between diplomatic momentum and the security reality on the ground, saying ceasefire efforts have yet to deliver lasting calm. Russia’s UN mission separately published her April 15 remarks following the Security Council session as cited by Actualite.CD .

Her comments come as the DRC and Rwanda continue efforts tied to the Washington peace track. In March, the United States said officials from both countries agreed in Washington on concrete steps meant to reduce tensions and advance implementation of the Washington Peace Agreement.

At the same time, talks between Kinshasa and AFC/M23 have resumed in Switzerland under the broader Doha framework, reflecting continued attempts by mediators to revive direct dialogue despite slow progress and unresolved differences.

Russia said the continuation of dialogue offers cautious optimism, but warned that the path to a settlement remains difficult. The statement adds to wider international calls for all sides to respect their commitments and turn signed agreements into concrete steps that can improve security in eastern DRC.