Two recent statements regarding the presence of Rwandan troops in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) have drawn a reaction from former Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Affairs Minister, now National Deputy Léonard She Okitundu, and his political party, the Green Social Democratic Party (PSDV). The statements in question came from U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Belgian Foreign Minister Maxime Prévot, both addressing the withdrawal of Rwandan forces from occupied areas in eastern DRC.

In a declaration dated June 7, 2026, She Okitundu and the PSDV described these international positions as a significant step toward a lasting solution to the security crisis in the country’s east. They believe the growing international focus on North Kivu and South Kivu provinces reflects a recognition of the security and humanitarian challenges facing Congolese communities. The party and its leader view this diplomatic mobilisation as a potential catalyst for peace efforts in a region plagued by armed violence and mass displacement.

However, while She Okitundu and his party warmly welcome U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s statement—which reportedly set a deadline for the full withdrawal of Rwandan troops from Congolese territory, seeing it as a strong signal of U.S. commitment to DRC’s sovereignty and regional stability—they strongly criticise the stance of Belgian Foreign Minister Maxime Prévot. Prévot had proposed linking the withdrawal of Rwandan forces with the neutralisation of the FDLR (Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda).

For Leonard She Okitundu and his party, this approach risks delaying the implementation of Rwanda’s obligations. They point out that UN Security Council Resolution 2773 demands an immediate and unconditional withdrawal of Rwandan troops from Congolese soil. In their view, this resolution remains the primary legal and diplomatic framework for achieving a sustainable de-escalation of tensions in eastern DRC.

Given the ongoing insecurity in areas affected by armed conflict, the PSDV and its leader are calling on national and international actors to maintain diplomatic pressure to ensure compliance with international commitments and to foster a return to peace. They also reaffirm their dedication to defending the DRC’s territorial integrity and advocate for a solution based on international law, regional cooperation, and respect for UN resolutions.