Russia Warns Rwanda-DRC Conflict Won’t End Without Addressing Root Causes

Moscow - January 21, 2026 - Russia has expressed skepticism that the ongoing conflict between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) can be resolved without addressing its underlying causes, according to Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov. The Rwanda-DRC peace and economic cooperation agreement, signed on December 4, 2025 with U.S. support, aims to resolve the conflict if fully implemented. The agreement specifically calls for dismantling the FDLR terrorist group, active in eastern DRC for years, which both countries agree poses a critical threat. Lavrov noted that although the DRC government pledged to dismantle the FDLR by June 2025, it has yet to act, continuing to supply the group with weapons, food, and money while supporting the AFC/M23 coalition. Speaking at a press conference in Moscow on January 20, 2026, Lavrov stated that Russia sees no signs of imminent resolution. He emphasized that the conflict cannot be resolved without tackling its known root causes and acknowledged the influence of the M23 armed group, which, despite lacking legal recognition in the DRC, wields significant power. Lavrov affirmed that Russia maintains good relations with both Rwanda and the DRC and is prepared to provide assistance if requested to help resolve the conflict quickly.