At UN, Kinshasa and France Press Global Response as ADF Terror Persists

New York, August 9, 2026 - During a recent United Nations Security Council meeting on August 5, DRC Deputy Permanent Representative Jocelyne Kabengele Lukundula emphasized the urgent need for a comprehensive global response to the ongoing threats posed by the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF). She highlighted the dire situation in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, where ADF-related massacres, abductions, and sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) have severely weakened the state's authority and stability in the Great Lakes region. Kabengele Lukundula called for enhanced security measures, increased financial support, and a focus on justice and addressing the root causes of the conflict, noting that women and girls have been disproportionately affected by the violence. Despite ongoing military operations, such as the Shujaa offensive, civilians continue to be targeted by ADF attacks.

France's representative, Charlotte Saudin, echoed these concerns, warning of the evolving threats from groups like Daesh and Al-Qaeda, which have begun to extend their influence into the DRC. She underscored the importance of Resolution 2462, which addresses the financing of terrorism, and called for improved technological and operational capacities to combat these threats effectively. The discussions at the Security Council reflect a growing international recognition of the complexities of the security landscape in the DRC and the need for a coordinated response to ensure the safety and stability of the region.