The United Kingdom on Thursday condemned a March 11 drone attack on civilians in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, using a United Nations Security Council session to warn of the growing use of drone strikes in the conflict and to call for an immediate de-escalation. Addressing the Council, Britain’s deputy UN envoy, Jennifer MacNaughtan, said the attack highlighted a worsening security situation in which civilians and humanitarian workers are increasingly at risk. The UK said a lasting solution depends on the full implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 2773, including an uncondit

The United Kingdom on Thursday condemned a March 11 drone attack on civilians in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, using a United Nations Security Council session to warn of the growing use of drone strikes in the conflict and to call for an immediate de-escalation.

Addressing the Council, Britain’s deputy UN envoy, Jennifer MacNaughtan, said the attack highlighted a worsening security situation in which civilians and humanitarian workers are increasingly at risk.

The UK said a lasting solution depends on the full implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 2773, including an unconditional ceasefire and an end to external military involvement.

Amid ongoing international concern over Rwanda’s alleged role in the conflict, the UK urged concrete steps to address the issue.
“It is essential that the ending of Rwandan Defence Forces’ support to M23, and their withdrawal from DRC territory, is fully implemented,” MacNaughtan said.

Rwanda has consistently rejected allegations that it supports the M23 rebel group.

The UK also backed a proposal by the UN Secretary-General to establish phased ceasefire monitoring through the UN peacekeeping mission, MONUSCO, while stressing that primary responsibility for peace lies with the parties to the conflict.

Warning of a deepening humanitarian crisis, the UK cited mass displacement, insecurity and reports of conflict-related sexual violence. It called for the reopening of Goma airport to facilitate aid deliveries, as well as unhindered humanitarian access and protection of civilian infrastructure.

The UK further welcomed mediation efforts by the United States, Qatar and the African Union. It said the effectiveness of those efforts would depend on whether commitments made in negotiations translate into tangible improvements in security conditions on the ground.

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