UN Plans Aerial Reconnaissance Before Peacekeepers Deploy to Uvira

KINSHASA, February 11, 2026 - The United Nations will deploy reconnaissance aircraft before sending peacekeepers to Uvira Territory in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, as part of a phased plan to monitor a ceasefire in the volatile border region. The announcement was made by Jean-Pierre Lacroix, Under-Secretary-General for Peacekeeping Operations, during his working visit to the country on February 10. Mandate Backed by the UN Security Council The move follows the January 2026 withdrawal of fighters from the city of Uvira by the M23/AFC coalition, which requested the deployment of neutral forces to prevent reprisals against civilians by government troops. The United Nations Security Council has mandated the UN mission MONUSCO to oversee implementation of the peace arrangement - a framework accepted by both the Congolese authorities and the armed group. Phased Deployment for Security Reasons According to Lacroix, troops will not be deployed immediately. Instead, reconnaissance aircraft will first collect intelligence on security conditions before personnel are transported. He warned that sending helicopters without prior assessment could expose peacekeepers to attack. “We will not send helicopters to take our personnel into areas where there are dangers or where drones are present,” Lacroix said, adding that security guarantees are required before the mission proceeds. He also called on international partners and the parties involved to ensure the safety of peacekeepers as they begin monitoring the ceasefire. Flights from Goma The reconnaissance aircraft are expected to operate from Goma International Airport, currently under the control of the AFC/M23 coalition. The airport has remained closed since January 2025, and UN officials did not confirm whether reopening is imminent. Gradual Arrival of Peacekeepers Once aerial surveillance is completed, a small contingent of troops will be deployed to Uvira, with numbers increasing progressively depending on developments on the ground. The UN says the cautious rollout is intended to prevent incidents and build confidence while stabilizing the region after months of fighting.