Kenyan President William Ruto has engaged key global leaders in renewed efforts to address the escalating conflict in the Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and strengthen regional peace initiatives.
President Ruto on Monday, January 27, 2025, held telephone discussions with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and French President Emmanuel Macron. These conversations focused on the ongoing crisis in Eastern DRC, regional stability, and Kenya’s leadership in promoting peace.
The conflict in Eastern DRC, driven by the M23 rebel group’s resurgence, has caused widespread devastation, including the recent capture of the strategic city of Goma.
The fall of Goma has exacerbated an already dire humanitarian crisis in North Kivu, displacing hundreds of thousands of civilians and threatening livelihoods. The M23, which DRC accuses of receiving Rwandan support—a claim Kigali denies—has mounted offensives that have overwhelmed the Congolese Armed Forces (FARDC).
In his call with Secretary Rubio, Ruto emphasized the urgent need for global support in resolving the DRC conflict.
“We discussed the situation in the Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo and the support needed from the United States of America,” he said.
The two leaders also explored broader international issues, including Haiti’s United Nations-led Multinational Security Support (MSS) mission.
They agreed on a joint strategy to ensure the mission achieves its goals. Additionally, they discussed finalizing the Strategic Trade and Investment Partnership (STIP) agreement, which aims to boost sustainable and inclusive economic growth.
Ruto provided updates on security challenges in Sudan, South Sudan, and Somalia, expressing appreciation for the U.S. commitment to supporting Kenya’s peace mission in the region.
In a separate conversation with President Macron, Ruto detailed Kenya’s role in leading regional peace interventions. Macron expressed solidarity with Kenya’s efforts in the Eastern DRC and pledged France’s continued support for peace initiatives.
“President Macron committed his country’s support for the interventions being carried out,” Ruto stated.
Macron also highlighted France’s endorsement of Kenya’s peace efforts in Somalia, Sudan, and South Sudan, reinforcing their shared commitment to regional stability.
The calls come amid heightened international concern over the M23 rebels’ capture of Goma, a critical economic hub, and its impact on the region. Ruto, as chairperson of the East African Community (EAC), has called for an emergency summit to address the crisis.
Both the U.S. and France’s support aligns with Kenya’s vision of fostering peace and sustainable development across the region. Ruto reaffirmed Kenya’s dedication to rallying international cooperation to achieve lasting stability.
