The International Contact Group for the Great Lakes (ICG) has released a high-level joint statement expressing profound concern over the deteriorating security situation in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Despite historic agreements reached late last year, the region is seeing a dangerous resurgence of violence that threatens to undo months of delicate diplomacy. The ICG which includes the United States, United Kingdom, France, Germany, and the European Union, among others highlighted a string of recent violations against the Washington Accords signed December 2025 and th

The International Contact Group for the Great Lakes (ICG) has released a high-level joint statement expressing profound concern over the deteriorating security situation in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Despite historic agreements reached late last year, the region is seeing a dangerous resurgence of violence that threatens to undo months of delicate diplomacy. The ICG which includes the United States, United Kingdom, France, Germany, and the European Union, among others highlighted a string of recent violations against the Washington Accords signed December 2025 and the Doha permanent ceasefire signed July 2025.

A particular point of alarm for the group is the escalating use of military drones. These attacks not only breach existing agreements but pose an acute risk to civilian populations caught in the crossfire. "There can be no military solution to the conflict."  International Contact Group Stated. The group is calling for an immediate return to the negotiating table, emphasizing a multi-pillar approach to lasting peace. The ICG urged all parties to comply with UN Security Council resolutions 2773 and 2808, stressing the absolute necessity of respecting territorial integrity. The statement also commended the ongoing mediation efforts led by Faure Gnassingbé, President of Togo (AU-appointed mediator). The United States and Qatar, for their crucial facilitation roles and Angola, for its work on the inclusive inter-Congolese dialogue.

The group also welcomed the establishment of a new ceasefire monitoring and verification mechanism supported by Qatar, the ICGLR, and MONUSCO. The ICG is pushing for unimpeded humanitarian access. They noted several positive steps, including the reopening of the DRC-Burundi border and the recent use of Goma airport by MONUSCO officials, which they hope will lead to a sustained reopening for aid flights. Beyond the battlefield, the ICG issued a stern warning regarding the rise of hate speech and discrimination, specifically targeting Rwandophone minorities. The group emphasized that stopping incitement is critical to maintaining social cohesion and protecting civilian lives. The ICG, currently chaired by Sweden, reaffirmed its readiness to support all regional efforts to transform these diplomatic commitments into a durable reality for the people of the DRC.  

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