DRC President Tshisekedi seeks Russian support to address eastern conflict

Democratic Republic of Congo President Félix Tshisekedi has reportedly sought assistance from Moscow to help resolve the ongoing conflict in the eastern part of the country. This move comes amid various international mediation efforts involving the United States, the African Union, and the Southern African Development Community (SADC), which have yet to achieve lasting peace.

At the Russia-Africa Summit held in Moscow, displaced residents in North Kivu expressed a mix of hope and skepticism regarding new international partnerships. Some displaced individuals in the Ibo camp stated they are open to Russian involvement if it leads to concrete military or peace-building actions, noting that previous agreements with Western nations, China, and Uganda have not ended the insecurity.

Analysts suggest the appeal to Russia, a historical rival of the United States, reflects a sense of desperation to end the protracted crisis. The summit, which included delegations from 48 African nations, resulted in a cooperation plan for 2027-2029.