The DRC has severed links with Rwanda amidst advancing M23 rebels closing in on Goma, causing civilian displacement and casualties among peacekeepers. Accusations against Rwanda for supporting the rebels complicate the geopolitical situation, prompting the U.N. to convene an emergency meeting. Several civilians express fears for safety as violence escalates in eastern Congo.
The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has severed diplomatic relations with Rwanda amid escalating violence from the M23 rebel group, which is allegedly supported by Kigali. This decision comes as the M23 advances toward Goma, a crucial eastern city for regional security and humanitarian efforts, leading to civilian displacement and casualties among peacekeepers.
The M23 group has gained significant territory, threatening Goma, home to approximately two million people. The DRC government, along with the United States and U.N. experts, accuse Rwanda of aiding the M23, whose composition largely consists of ethnic Tutsis. This group emerged over a decade ago from defectors of the Congolese army and is among many armed factions operating in the mineral-rich region.
Rwanda’s government, while denying direct support for the M23, has acknowledged its military presence in eastern Congo to ensure its own security, citing concerns over Congolese troop movements. According to U.N. estimates, there are approximately 4,000 Rwandan forces within Congo’s borders. The DRC’s Foreign Ministry declared the immediate withdrawal of its diplomatic staff and the termination of diplomatic ties with Rwanda.
In response to the deteriorating situation, the U.N. Security Council expedited an emergency meeting requested by the DRC to address the violence. Gunfire was reported near Goma, leading to a mass exodus of displaced individuals from Kanyaruchinya camp, as they sought refuge amidst escalating hostilities.
One civilian expressed fear of further violence, stating, “We are fleeing because we saw soldiers on the border with Rwanda throwing bombs and shooting.” Others shared concerns about their safety in Goma itself, given reports of bombings affecting the city as well.
Attempts to cross into Rwanda were made by some fleeing individuals, who cited security uncertainties in Goma. Earlier clashes saw M23 rebels seize Sake, intensifying fears regarding Goma’s fate. Congolese forces, alongside allied U.N. troops, have managed to repel M23 offensives, yet significant casualties among peacekeepers continued to mount over recent days.
The United Nations peacekeeping mission in Congo, known as MONUSCO, has maintained a presence for over twenty years, consisting of approximately 14,000 peace troops. As the situation remains volatile, international attention focuses on stabilizing the eastern DRC and addressing the humanitarian crisis rapidly unfolding due to the conflict.
The conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo has persisted for over two decades, characterized by multifaceted armed groups vying for control over rich mineral resources. The M23 rebel group, which has garnered significant attention recently, is believed to have ties with Rwanda, igniting international scrutiny and diplomatic tensions. This escalation has prompted the DRC to sever ties with Rwanda, highlighting the fragile security situation in the region and the humanitarian challenges faced by civilians caught in the conflict.
The DRC’s decision to cut diplomatic ties with Rwanda underscores the escalating conflict posed by the M23 rebel group, which continues to threaten the stability of Goma and displace thousands of civilians. As violence intensifies, the international community, alongside U.N. peacekeeping forces, faces significant challenges in addressing both the security threats and humanitarian needs rapidly emerging from the ongoing hostilities in the region.
Original Source: www.france24.com
