As he delivered a speech at the United Nations General Assembly, Tshisekedi emphasized the need for his country to regain control over its stability.

The mission, consisting of 15,000 peacekeepers, has struggled to address rebellions and protect civilians.

Originally scheduled for withdrawal in December 2024, DR Congo now seeks an earlier departure, starting this year.

While the US expressed concerns about a hasty exit, Tshisekedi stressed that maintaining Monusco was counterproductive amid growing tensions and protests against the mission.

The ongoing militia violence in eastern DR Congo has plagued the region for decades. The United Nations Organisation Stabilisation Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (Monusco), in place since 1999, is one of the world’s largest and most expensive UN peacekeeping efforts, with an annual budget of around US$1 billion.

However, its effectiveness has been questioned by many in the DRC.

DR Congo has called for earlier departure, starting this year.