New York, 23 March 2026 — Speaking at the United Nations Security Council during a meeting devoted to the situation in Ukraine, the Democratic Republic of the Congo expressed its deep concern over the continuation of hostilities and their dramatic consequences for civilian populations.
In its statement, the DRC thanked Ms. Rosemary DiCarlo, United Nations Under-Secretary-General for Political and Peacebuilding Affairs, and Mr. Tom Fletcher, United Nations Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs, for their briefings, while also welcoming the presence of Mr. Christopher Landau, Deputy Secretary of State of the United States of America.
The Congolese delegation stressed that the continued deterioration of the humanitarian situation is a reminder that, behind the dynamics of the conflict, there are above all human lives, families and entire communities plunged into suffering. It underscored the imperative of putting an end to hostilities and ensuring the strict observance of any commitment in favor of a ceasefire, considering that an effective cessation of fighting remains the only way to durably reduce the suffering of civilians and prevent a worsening of the humanitarian crisis.
While noting the absence of concrete improvements on the ground, the Democratic Republic of the Congo nevertheless took note with interest of the encouraging signals observed in mid-February in favor of a resumption of diplomatic efforts. In this regard, it urged all parties to resolutely choose the path of dialogue and to redouble their efforts to achieve an effective, lasting and credible ceasefire.
The DRC also recalled that respect for international humanitarian law and the protection of civilians must remain constant priorities in times of conflict. It highlighted the need to guarantee safe, rapid and unimpeded humanitarian access to all persons in need, so as to enable humanitarian actors to operate under adequate security conditions.
The Congolese delegation further expressed its grave concern over attacks against civilian infrastructure, in particular energy facilities, the degradation of which directly affects the living conditions of the population and compromises access to essential services.
Beyond the immediate theater of operations, the Democratic Republic of the Congo emphasized that the conflict in Ukraine continues to have global repercussions, particularly in the economic and food sectors. It noted that the continuation of the war is exacerbating existing vulnerabilities, disrupting supply chains for cereals and basic goods, and disproportionately affecting African countries that are heavily dependent on imports.
In conclusion, the Democratic Republic of the Congo reaffirmed its commitment to the principles of the Charter of the United Nations, in particular the peaceful settlement of disputes, as well as respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of States. It reiterated its conviction that a truly just and lasting peace can only be achieved through diplomatic avenues that fully take into account the root causes of the crisis.