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U.S. Secretary of State Rubio, Kenyan President Ruto Call for Ceasefire in Eastern Congo
Reuters
Reuters
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Kenyan President William Ruto have called for an immediate ceasefire in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) amid escalating violence. Their appeal follows the capture of key cities by the Rwanda-backed M23 rebel group.
During a phone call, Rubio and Ruto discussed the deteriorating situation in eastern Congo and urged a diplomatic resolution to the crisis, the U.S. State Department confirmed on Friday.
"Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to push for a diplomatic resolution to the crisis," the State Department said.
The conflict, driven by ethnic and geopolitical tensions, has intensified in recent weeks, with M23 rebels capturing the cities of Goma and Bukavu. The group’s resurgence marks the most severe escalation in over a decade.
Background and U.S. Response
M23, accused of receiving military support from Rwanda, has reignited tensions between Kinshasa and Kigali. Rwanda denies allegations from Congo, the United Nations, and Western nations that it supplies arms and troops to the rebels.
On Thursday, the U.S. imposed sanctions on a Rwandan government minister and a senior member of an armed group for their alleged involvement in the conflict. A diplomatic note seen by Reuters earlier this month stated that regional stability would require Rwanda to withdraw its military forces and advanced weaponry from eastern Congo.
Growing Diplomatic Pressure
The U.S. and Kenya’s joint call for de-escalation reflects increasing international concern over the conflict’s impact on regional stability. As fighting intensifies, diplomatic efforts are being stepped up to prevent further humanitarian fallout and geopolitical instability.
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Morning Brief
AnewZ Morning Brief - February 22nd, 2025
Start your day informed with AnewZ Morning Brief: here are the top news stories for February 22nd, covering the latest developments you need to know.
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