Félix Tshisekedi challenges global inaction on DRC conflict in powerful Luanda address

During an official visit to Luanda, Angola, where he received a warm welcome from his counterpart João Lourenço, President Félix-Antoine Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of Congo delivered a profoundly impactful speech, resonating with significant political force.

Speaking at the 3rd edition of the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC) initiative, the head of state vehemently condemned the international community’s passivity in the face of the dire security crisis plaguing Eastern DRC. He raised his voice against a global order he believes has lost its moral compass.

For Félix Tshisekedi, the ongoing tragedy in Congo must transcend its perception as a mere regional incident. Instead, he framed it as a stark indicator of a collective failure within international law.

“We cannot accept the silence of convenience”

Addressing an assembly of world leaders, diplomats, and civil society representatives, the Congolese president eschewed diplomatic platitudes, instead delivering harsh truths about the human catastrophe unfolding in his nation:

“We must reject the normalization of war. We cannot be content with fleeting indignation. We cannot accept the silence of convenience, nor merely count victims only to forget them. We cannot allow international law to become a ceremonial language devoid of real impact.”

This direct appeal unequivocally targets the major powers’ lack of concrete action against the Rwandan aggression, disguised under the M23 rebellion. By emphasizing that peace cannot be reduced to empty rhetoric or a “temporary silence of arms,” the head of state demands that justice, truth, and respect for national sovereignty finally guide multilateral resolutions.

The eastern conflict: a stress test for global order

Broadening his perspective, Félix Tshisekedi warned the audience that ignoring the security chaos in the Great Lakes region poses a systemic threat to the entire planet:

“The struggle waged by the DRC extends far beyond its borders; it does not only concern the security of a Central African nation. It questions the very solidity of the international order we claim to uphold, because wherever the law of the strongest prevails over the strength of law, no people can remain safe for long (…).”

For Kinshasa, the situation in eastern Congo serves as the ultimate credibility test for multilateralism. If the borders of a sovereign state can be violated with impunity, sponsored by neighboring countries without significant sanctions, then the global security of every nation is undeniably weakened.

Strategic discussions with João Lourenço

On the sidelines of the forum, Félix Tshisekedi held a private meeting with João Lourenço, who has been designated as the African Union’s mediator for the RDC security crisis. The two leaders assessed the on-the-ground situation and discussed the next steps for the Luanda peace process initiatives.

As the DRC assumes the rotating presidency of the UN Security Council since July 1, 2026, this impactful address in Luanda marks the beginning of a significant diplomatic offensive, aiming to compel the international community to move from mere words to decisive action.