Members of the International Contact Group for the Great Lakes (ICG) have warned that there is no military solution to the ongoing conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).
The warning was contained in a joint statement issued by the group following renewed violence in the troubled region.
The ICG includes governments such as the United States, European Union, United Kingdom, Switzerland, France, Germany, Belgium, Denmark, Netherlands, and Sweden, which currently chairs the group.
The group expressed deep concern over repeated violations of ceasefire agreements in eastern DRC, warning that continued hostilities threaten civilian lives and regional stability.
According to the statement, recent violations undermine commitments made under the Washington Accords.
The ICG also raised concerns about breaches of commitments made during negotiations in Doha in July 2025, which aimed to secure a permanent ceasefire and end hostilities.
The group noted that the use of drones in military attacks has increased risks to civilian populations in the conflict zone.
The international group urged all parties involved in the conflict to immediately recommit to the ceasefire and return to negotiations, stressing that diplomacy remains the only path to sustainable peace.
It also called for the full implementation of obligations under relevant UN resolutions, including United Nations Security Council Resolution 2773 and United Nations Security Council Resolution 2808, while respecting the territorial integrity of the DRC.
The ICG commended ongoing mediation led by Faure Gnassingbé, President of Togo, who is serving as mediator appointed by the African Union.
The group also welcomed mediation efforts involving the Qatar, the International Conference on the Great Lakes Region, and the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO).
The contact group stressed the need for safe and unrestricted humanitarian access to assist civilians affected by the conflict.
It welcomed steps aimed at improving humanitarian operations, including the reopening of the border between Burundi and the DRC, as well as the use of Goma International Airport for humanitarian flights.
The ICG also warned against incitement to hatred and discrimination, particularly against Rwandophone minority communities, stressing that such actions threaten social cohesion and civilian safety.
The group reiterated its commitment to supporting diplomatic initiatives aimed at achieving lasting peace in the DRC.
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