Ruto, Rubio Discuss Diplomatic Solution for Eastern DRC Crisis

Amid escalating conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), diplomatic efforts are intensifying at both regional and international levels.

A phone call on Friday between the US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Kenyan President William Ruto highlighted the urgency for a ceasefire and a non-military resolution. The conversation focused on the capture of Goma and Bukavu by the Rwanda-backed M23 armed group. Both Rubio and Ruto emphasized that lasting peace could only be achieved through diplomatic efforts, reiterating their commitment to supporting a political resolution.

"Secretary of State Marco Rubio spoke with Kenyan President William Ruto to discuss the ongoing conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, including the unacceptable capture of Goma and Bukavu by the Rwanda-backed M23 armed group," Bruce’s statement read in part.

This follows a prior discussion on February 7, where the leaders addressed Kenya's role in the Haiti humanitarian mission and the strengthening of the US-Kenyan relations. Kenya's capital has become a central hub for regional security talks as Chiefs of Defence Forces (CDFs) from the East African Community (EAC) convened to address the deteriorating security in eastern DRC. The meeting was directed by resolutions from the recent EAC-Southern African Development Community (SADC) Heads of State Summit in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.

Prior to the CDFs' assembly, the EAC Defence Experts Working Group engaged in preliminary discussions to forge a strategic framework for deliberations. EAC Secretary-General Veronica Nduva highlights the Nairobi Process as the primary mechanism to support the DRC government and its people.

Nduva expresses optimism that coordinated efforts could lead to sustainable peace and stability by addressing the underlying causes of the conflict, while also acknowledging the complexities involved. She urges defence and security experts to formulate actionable steps toward a resolution.

"The Community is committed to resolving the conflict in eastern DRC, and we rely on you—the experts in defence and security. I am confident that you will provide the necessary steps that will ultimately lead to a solution," Nduva says.