Accusations linking Ukraine to the AFC/M23 rebellion, a movement controlling significant areas in the North and South Kivu provinces of eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, originated in Bujumbura. There, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov asserted that Ukraine was among the external backers of the insurgent group.
Kiev’s response was immediate and unequivocal, addressing both the substance and presentation of the claims. Ukrainian diplomacy characterized the allegations as a deliberate manipulation, designed to obscure diplomatic efforts within the Great Lakes region. “Sergei Lavrov’s assertions that Ukraine supports the M23 in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo constitute Kremlin disinformation, entirely devoid of evidence. We formally refute and reject these accusations. Our stance is unambiguous and leaves no room for speculation,” stated Ukraine’s diplomatic corps.
– Moscow accused of mirroring its own tactics –
Ukraine did not merely issue a denial; its ministry turned the argument directly back against Moscow. Presenting itself as an actor detached from the African continent, Ukraine highlighted Russia’s own alleged involvement.
Ukraine does not meddle in African conflicts. Russia, however, does so by arming groups in violation of sanctions, fueling instability, and recruiting nationals from African states to fight in its war against Ukraine. The contrast is evident.
For Heorhii Tykhyi, this strategy is far from novel. He views it as a diversionary tactic, intended to shift focus from genuine issues by advancing what he considers baseless accusations.
It is nothing new for Moscow to accuse others of doing precisely what it does itself. Russia’s objective is clear: to undermine United States mediation efforts in the Great Lakes region and to divert attention from its own destructive actions that impede the peace process. Ukraine thus connects the Congolese situation to the ongoing conflict in Europe.
These pronouncements emerge as the crisis in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo continues to draw the attention of global powers. The exchange of accusations between international players underscores the escalating geopolitical dimension of the conflict, where each side endeavors to impose its narrative concerning external responsibilities and influences.
By dismissing the Russian accusations, Kiev also seeks to safeguard its reputation among African and international partners, affirming its non-involvement in the armed clashes in the DRC. Moscow, for its part, maintains its critique against Ukraine, within a context marked by a diplomatic rivalry that now extends beyond the scope of the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
– At the UN, Kinshasa advocates diplomatic path for Ukraine –
Despite the war of words, the DRC has made a point of voicing a different perspective. As President of the Security Council for the current month, Kinshasa expressed its dismay over the deteriorating situation in Ukraine. During the session on Thursday, July 9, presided over by Zénon Mukongo Ngay, the DRC highlighted the persistence of hostilities and their humanitarian repercussions.
The Congolese government reiterated that no military solution exists for the conflict. In a Great Lakes region itself scarred by war, the DRC urged all parties to fully uphold international law, protect civilians, and prioritize de-escalation, dialogue, mediation, and diplomacy.
The DRC also reaffirmed its support for any credible initiative aimed at achieving a just, lasting peace in accordance with the United United Nations Charter.
– Peace processes facing difficulties –
This diplomatic standoff unfolds within a fragile regional environment. A year after its ministerial-level signing, the Washington agreement has not yielded the anticipated results. Kinshasa and Kigali continue to offer conflicting interpretations, impeding its implementation.
Meanwhile, the humanitarian and security situation in eastern DRC continues to worsen. Evaluation meetings follow one another, yet violence persists, particularly in areas controlled by the AFC/M23.