Ruto, Rubio Discuss Ongoing DRC Conflict, Regional Security

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio held a phone call with Kenyan President William Ruto to discuss regional security issues, specifically regarding the escalating conflicts in Somalia, South Sudan, and the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Both leaders emphasized the urgent need for diplomatic interventions to prevent further humanitarian crises, with Ruto being commended for Kenya's leadership in peace efforts. The discussion highlighted the political turmoil in South Sudan, where tensions between President Salva Kiir and Vice President Riek Machar threaten to reignite civil war. Additionally, the situation in the DRC remains critical, with armed group activities leading to significant casualties. The pair's conversation also touched on regional stability and collaborative efforts to address these pressing challenges. Ruto is set to meet with former heads of state to discuss resolutions for the DRC crisis in the coming days.