New York, 23.09.2025 The rhetoric of war is gaining ground, and we are seeing the return of old demons.” — Félix Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo, President of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

He pointed to the conflicts in Gaza, Ukraine, Yemen, Myanmar and Syria — as well in his own country where, over three decades, war has become a “predatory exercise” and a “silent genocide”.

The illegal exploitation of natural resources is a major cause of conflict, he said, urging the international community to support the independent commission of inquiry into massacres perpetrated in the east of the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi expressed optimism that a U.S.-brokered peace agreement could bring an end to 30 years of conflict with Rwanda.

Former U.S. President Donald Trump has been credited by Tshisekedi for his efforts, suggesting Nobel Peace Prize consideration.… pic.twitter.com/1xhfUZdAbp

— Business Insider Africa (@BusInsiderSSA) September 23, 2025

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More positively, he looked forward to his country’s turn as a non-permanent member of the Security Council in 2026-2027. “Our participation will be constructive and holistic,” he said, with a focus on peace, security and conflict prevention and resolution.

Citing the Common African Position on Security Council reform, he said that Africa must hold two permanent and two non-permanent seats, with the former enjoying the same rights and obligations as current permanent members. Africa can no longer remain on the sidelines when decisions are taken on international peace and security, he stressed.

Additionally, he commended the leadership of the United States President for paving the way to dialogue that led to the signing of a peace agreement between the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Rwanda. He called on the UN to ensure the strict enforcement of that agreement; “otherwise, the blood of innocents will continue to flow”.