Syrians have suffered enough, their voices must be heard
The Security Council discussed the latest developments in Syria today, where…
Given the alarming developments and escalation of violence in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, the Security Council held an emergency session today. While deterring an advance on Goma by the M23 armed group, UN peacekeepers were among those who have lost their lives and sustained injuries. Slovenia condemned the actions by the M23 in the strongest possible terms and demanded unconditional withdrawal of their forces from seized territories.
“We categorically condemn the actions by the M23 and demand the immediate cessation of all hostilities,” Deputy Permanent Representative Ondina Blokar Drobič told the Council members. She went on to state that the capture of Minova and Sake cities, alongside the threat of Goma, carries catastrophic security and humanitarian consequences.
“Roads are blocked and Goma airport can no longer be used for evacuation or humanitarian efforts. M23 has declared the airspace over Goma “closed”. In other words, we are trapped,” the MONUSCO Chief and SRSG Bintou Keita reported to the Council, sounding the alarm on the extreme situation unfolding in Goma.
Slovenia further called on Rwanda to cease all support to the M23 and withdraw from the DRC territory. “Any unauthorized military presence in the DRC is a flagrant violation of international law, the UN Charter, and the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the DRC,” the Deputy PR underscored. She urged the DRC to cease all cooperation with the FDLR and other armed groups. Rwanda and the DRC should de-escalate tensions and resume dialogue. Regional peace and stability as well as the protection of civilians should be top concerns.
“All parties must take constant care to spare civilians and civilian objects throughout military operations,” ASG Joyce Msuya underlined. International humanitarian and human rights law must be respected and also the safety and security of peacekeeping personnel.
Slovenia unequivocally condemned the attacks and threats against MONUSCO personnel, as well as SAMIDRC. Deputy PR Blokar Drobič extended Slovenia’s heartfelt condolences to the families of fallen MONUSCO peacekeepers and paid tribute to their sacrifice. Additionally, she extended gratitude to all Troop and Police Contributing Countries for their continued support to the UN efforts in the DRC.
The Security Council discussed the latest developments in Syria today, where…
On the occasion of the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, Foreign Minister Fajon emphasized…
Today, 79 States Parties have joined the following statement in support of the International Criminal Court…