The United States has condemned a deadly drone strike in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo that killed a United Nations worker and at least two civilians, describing the attack as unacceptable and calling on all parties in the conflict to respect international humanitarian obligations.
In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), the Bureau of African Affairs expressed concern over the continued violence affecting civilians in eastern Congo, particularly in the conflict-affected city of Goma.
According to the statement, the drone strike resulted in the death of a UN worker and multiple civilians, further deepening the humanitarian tragedy that has unfolded across eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo for years.
US expresses condolences and calls for protection of civilians
The U.S. government extended condolences to the victims’ families, colleagues, and loved ones while emphasizing the urgent need to protect humanitarian personnel and civilians operating in conflict zones.
“The drone strike in Goma today killed a UN worker and at least two civilians, adding to the tragic loss of life that continues to impact countless civilians in eastern DRC,” the Bureau of African Affairs stated.
The statement also urged all armed actors involved in the ongoing conflict to respect international law and ensure the safety of civilians and humanitarian workers.
Growing concern over attacks in civilian areas
Washington stressed that attacks conducted in populated areas are unacceptable and risk worsening an already severe humanitarian crisis in eastern Congo.
The United States further reiterated that all parties involved in the conflict must uphold their commitments, particularly those related to protecting civilians and humanitarian personnel working in volatile regions.
Eastern DRC has experienced escalating violence in recent years, with armed confrontations, drone strikes, and displacement affecting hundreds of thousands of people, especially in North Kivu province where Goma serves as a key humanitarian hub.
International pressure mounting
The U.S. statement adds to growing international concern about the safety of civilians and aid workers in the region. Humanitarian organizations have repeatedly warned that the use of heavy weapons and aerial strikes in populated areas could significantly worsen the humanitarian situation.
As the conflict continues, global actors are increasingly calling for restraint, respect for ceasefire commitments, and renewed diplomatic efforts aimed at stabilizing eastern Congo and protecting vulnerable populations.
