The Russian Foreign Minister, Sergei Lavrov, has leveled serious allegations against Ukraine, accusing it of providing military support to the M23 rebel group operating in the eastern regions of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).
During a joint press conference with his Burundian counterpart, Édouard Bizimana, in Bujumbura, Lavrov claimed that foreign interference—including Ukrainian involvement—is exacerbating the conflict in the DRC. He stated that the Congolese government, with assistance from Burundi, faces aggression from the M23, which he alleges is backed by external actors.
Russia’s accusations and broader geopolitical tensions
Lavrov emphasized that Ukraine’s alleged support for the M23 is part of a wider strategy to undermine legitimate African governments aligned with Moscow. According to the Russian diplomat, this interference aims to weaken Russia’s influence on the continent while positioning Ukraine as a key player in African conflicts.
« We are witnessing blatant attempts to interfere in African affairs, particularly in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The legitimate authorities of this country, supported by Burundi, are confronting aggression from the M23 group, which receives backing from foreign actors—including Ukrainians. Both our Russian and Burundian partners are fully aware of this situation, » Lavrov declared.
The Russian minister further asserted that Ukraine is actively supporting forces opposed to African governments to strengthen its foothold on the continent and challenge countries considered friendly to Russia.
« Ukrainian involvement in multiple African conflicts is concerning. They are backing opposition forces against legitimate governments solely to establish themselves as indispensable players in Africa and create difficulties for countries allied with Russia, » Lavrov added.
international concerns over drone warfare in DRC
Russia has also raised alarms about the increasing use of armed drones in the DRC conflict, warning that such tactics exacerbate the humanitarian and security crisis. Anna Evstigneeva, Russia’s acting ambassador to the United Nations, highlighted the growing reliance on drone strikes during a UN Security Council briefing on the situation in eastern DRC.
Evstigneeva referenced a deadly drone strike in Goma on March 11, which resulted in the death of a UNICEF staff member. She also expressed Moscow’s concerns over reports of foreign mercenaries operating in the region, some of whom may have gained combat experience in Ukraine before being recruited as drone operators or trainers.
« We are deeply troubled by reports of foreign mercenaries, including individuals with military experience in Ukraine, who are reportedly serving as drone operators or instructors in the DRC conflict, » Evstigneeva stated during the June 26 UN briefing.
diplomatic gridlock hampers peace efforts
Despite multiple peace initiatives, including the Washington Agreement and negotiations under Qatari mediation in Doha, the conflict in eastern DRC continues to escalate. The Montreux meeting in Switzerland, intended to revitalize the peace process, failed to produce meaningful progress.
Disputes between Kinshasa and Kigali over the interpretation of the Washington Agreement further complicate its implementation. Meanwhile, the M23 rebel group, widely believed to be supported by Rwanda, remains a dominant force in the North-Kivu and South-Kivu provinces.
The international community has repeatedly called for adherence to peace commitments, but diplomatic efforts have yet to translate into tangible improvements on the ground. The persistent lack of consensus among key stakeholders continues to hinder the resolution of one of Africa’s most protracted conflicts.
