Such is the case with Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine and Félix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), two presidents facing intense security crises who have, time and again, chosen nearly identical paths in how they respond to unrest within their borders.
Despite leading countries shaped by distinct histories and geopolitical pressures, the two have responded to domestic conflict in remarkably parallel ways—fueling criticism that their hardline approaches may be deepening, rather than resolving, the crises they face.
This has left both Ukraine and the DRC entrenched in drawn-out wars with no foreseeable end.
The spark that reignited the flames
Both the Ukraine-Russia war and the DRC-M23 conflict saw renewed escalations in the early 2020s, despite having roots in earlier unrest.
Ukraine’s conflict reignited in February 2022 when Russia launched a full-scale invasion, citing NATO expansion and the need to protect Russian-speaking populations in Donbas.
Likewise, in November 2021, fighting resumed between the Congolese army and the M23 rebel group, which later allied with the AFC (Alliance Fleuve Congo) in December 2023.
This coalition claims to defend the rights of Kinyarwanda-speaking Congolese, alleging targeted marginalization by Tshisekedi’s government.
Dialogue dismissed
Early in both wars, opportunities for peace existed. Ukraine was reportedly close to signing a peace agreement before British Prime Minister Boris Johnson intervened, allegedly advising against it. Zelensky has since rebuffed Russia’s calls for talks, stating that a nation under attack cannot be expected to negotiate with its aggressor.
Tshisekedi has taken a similar stance. Despite numerous regional and international calls to engage with M23/AFC, he has refused, classifying the group as a terrorist organization.
Use of mercenaries
Foreign military involvement has also shaped both conflicts. In 2024, Russia revealed over 4,000 foreign mercenaries were fighting in Ukraine—many believed to be supported by NATO member states. These countries have also provided Ukraine with financial aid and advanced weaponry.
Similarly, Tshisekedi’s government enlisted support from over 280 European mercenaries, some of whom exited through Rwanda in January 2025.
Reports estimate as many as 800 mercenaries, including Romania’s RALF group, were present in Goma. DRC also welcomed troops from SADC countries and Burundi, many of whom decided to withdraw after battlefield losses to AFC/M23.
Territory lost, positions hardened
Despite international support and militarized approaches, both leaders have suffered substantial territorial losses.
As of 2024, Russia controls approximately 20% of Ukrainian territory, including key regions like Crimea, Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia, and Kherson, displacing millions.
In DRC, AFC/M23 now controls most of the eastern provinces, including the strategic cities of Goma and Bukavu, and has established de facto administrative authority over much of North and South Kivu.
Human cost of prolonged conflict
The military toll has been devastating. Ukraine is estimated to have lost up to 1 million soldiers, with an additional 100,000 desertions, according to reports Russia cites—though Kyiv disputes these numbers.
The DRC’s toll is similarly grim. Over 2,500 soldiers from the national army and allied militias reportedly died during the battle for Goma alone.
Desertions have also plagued Congolese ranks, with several troops captured and sentenced to death for fleeing combat.
Seeking sympathy, avoiding responsibility
Rather than embracing introspection or compromise, both Zelensky and Tshisekedi have positioned themselves globally as victims, appealing to international partners for support while deflecting blame for internal failings.
Zelensky continues to frame Ukraine’s struggle as a fight for democracy, while Tshisekedi frequently accuses Rwanda of backing M23—an allegation Kigali denies.
Critics argue both leaders have shown reluctance to accept accountability for the underlying domestic fractures fueling the conflicts.
Strategic minerals and superpower interests
Both Ukraine and the DRC are resource-rich nations, which has shaped their relationships with the United States and other Western powers.
Ukraine and the U.S. recently signed agreements granting access to Ukrainian natural resources, as part of post-war reconstruction efforts.
Similarly, in early 2025, Tshisekedi’s government was reportedly exploring ways to leverage Congolese minerals in exchange for military and diplomatic backing against M23 and pressure on Rwanda.
A late turn toward dialogue
After years of intransigence, both leaders appear to be softening their stances. Zelensky has signaled a willingness to engage in peace talks with Russia, while Tshisekedi has similarly opened the door to dialogue with AFC/M23.
In both cases, the United States has expressed interest in facilitating negotiations, marking a potential shift from armed confrontation to diplomatic resolution.
Whether these talks will succeed remains uncertain, but for now, they offer the first genuine glimmers of hope in conflicts that have long resisted compromise.
