Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) President Félix Tshisekedi has called on Russian President Vladimir Putin to support efforts to end the persistent conflict in eastern Congo, as Kinshasa seeks stronger international backing against the M23 rebel group.
Tshisekedi made the appeal during a meeting with Putin in Moscow on Friday, October 30, on the sidelines of the Russia-Africa summit. The Congolese leader said he wanted Russia to play a more active role in diplomatic efforts aimed at restoring peace between DR Congo and neighbouring Rwanda.
He pointed to Russia’s position as a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council, arguing that Moscow could use its influence to support the search for a lasting solution.
The meeting comes amid continuing insecurity in eastern DR Congo, where government forces have been battling the M23 movement and other armed groups. The conflict has displaced communities, disrupted economic activities and deepened an already difficult humanitarian situation.
Tshisekedi Seeks Moscow’s Influence in the Conflict
Tshisekedi’s request reflects Kinshasa’s efforts to widen the diplomatic pressure on Rwanda and secure support from influential international partners.
The Congolese government has repeatedly accused Kigali of providing military assistance to M23, a rebel movement that has expanded its presence in parts of eastern DR Congo. Kinshasa has also demanded that Rwandan troops leave Congolese territory.
Rwanda has consistently denied supporting the rebels. However, United Nations experts have reported that Rwandan forces have been involved in supporting M23, adding to tensions between the two neighbouring countries.
The dispute has become one of the major security challenges in Africa’s Great Lakes region, with both governments accusing each other of contributing to instability.
Rwanda, for its part, has raised concerns about the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR), an armed group operating in eastern Congo. The militia was founded by former Rwandan Hutu officials, including individuals linked to the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi.
Kigali has insisted that DR Congo must take action against the FDLR, describing the group’s presence near its borders as a security threat.
Peace Agreement Has Failed to Stop Fighting
Tshisekedi’s appeal to Putin comes despite previous attempts to resolve the conflict through diplomatic negotiations.
DR Congo and Rwanda signed a United States-mediated peace agreement in December 2025, raising hopes that the deal would help reduce hostilities and create conditions for lasting stability.
The agreement was intended to address security concerns and ease the confrontation between the two countries. However, fighting has continued in eastern Congo, highlighting the difficulties involved in implementing commitments made during diplomatic negotiations.
Kinshasa continues to insist that Rwanda must withdraw its forces from Congolese territory and stop supporting armed groups operating in the region.
The continued violence has also raised questions about whether existing peace initiatives can deliver meaningful results without stronger enforcement and cooperation from the parties involved.
Tshisekedi’s latest diplomatic move suggests that his administration is looking beyond the existing negotiations for additional international support.
Russia Asked to Support MONUSCO’s Mandate Renewal
Beyond the conflict with Rwanda, Tshisekedi also sought Moscow’s backing for the renewal of the mandate of the United Nations Organisation Stabilisation Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, known as MONUSCO.
The peacekeeping mission’s current mandate is due to expire in December 2026, making its future an important issue for the Congolese government.
Russia’s position on the UN Security Council gives it a significant role in discussions surrounding the mission’s mandate. As a permanent member of the council, Moscow can influence decisions on international peacekeeping operations and security matters.
Tshisekedi’s request therefore has two important objectives: securing Russian diplomatic support in efforts to address the Rwanda dispute and encouraging Moscow to back the continuation of the UN peacekeeping mission.
MONUSCO has operated in DR Congo for years, although its presence and effectiveness have faced criticism from sections of the Congolese population. Its future remains particularly significant as armed violence continues in the country’s eastern provinces.
Russia Expands Its Diplomatic Engagement in Africa
The meeting also comes as Russia seeks to strengthen its political, economic and military relationships across Africa.
Moscow has increased its engagement with several African governments in recent years, pursuing partnerships in areas including security, energy, trade and diplomacy.
For DR Congo, support from Russia could provide another avenue for raising its security concerns at the international level. However, whether Moscow’s involvement will produce tangible progress on the battlefield or bring Rwanda and DR Congo closer to an agreement remains uncertain.
The conflict in eastern Congo has lasted for decades, with numerous armed groups competing for influence and control of territory. The resurgence of M23 since 2021 has further complicated efforts to restore government authority and protect civilians.
Although Tshisekedi’s meeting with Putin represents another diplomatic effort to address the crisis, the central challenge remains turning international statements and peace agreements into concrete action.
For communities living in eastern DR Congo, the priority is an end to the fighting, the safe return of displaced residents and the restoration of security across the region.
The coming months will show whether Russia’s diplomatic involvement can contribute to progress or whether the conflict will continue despite renewed international engagement.
