DR Congo’s Foreign Minister Thérèse Kayikwamba Wagner has called on the UN Security Council to take definitive measures against the M23 rebels, who have taken control of Goma, causing mass displacement and humanitarian suffering. Wagner’s demands include the withdrawal of irregular fighters and sanctions targeting Rwandan forces involved in supporting the aggression, while emphasizing the need for an embargo on the illicit exploitation of resources. The situation remains urgent with the lives of millions at stake, as well as the stability of the region.
The foreign minister of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Thérèse Kayikwamba Wagner, has urged the United Nations Security Council to take decisive action against the ongoing aggression from M23 rebels in Goma, which has resulted in a humanitarian crisis. Thousands of residents have fled to the Rwandan border amid escalating conflicts, and Wagner stated that mere words of condemnation are insufficient to address the human suffering caused by this violence.
Wagner emphasized that the immediate withdrawal of irregular fighters from Congolese territory is crucial for achieving a sustainable and peaceful resolution to the conflict. She further demanded the introduction of sanctions aimed at the command structure of the Rwandan Defence Forces to hinder their capacity to continue hostilities against the DRC.
Additionally, she called for an embargo on Rwanda’s exploitation and exportation of mineral resources from the DRC, positing that this is essential to curtail financial support for the M23 rebels. In alignment with international concerns, the United States has also urged the Security Council to implement measures to confront the offensive backed by Rwanda.
Rwandan President Paul Kagame shared his agreement with U.S. calls for a ceasefire and highlighted the need to address the underlying causes of the conflict. Reports indicate that M23 has solidified its hold over Goma, exacerbating the humanitarian disaster as the city recorded casualties and extensive displacement.
Wagner lamented, “Millions have been displaced. Thousands are trapped in the besieged city of Goma with restricted access to food, water, electricity, security. Countless lives have been lost. Enough is enough.” Meanwhile, the M23 rebels intend to establish governance in Goma, promoting the return of displaced individuals to their homes from which they have been uprooted by the ongoing violence.
The Democratic Republic of the Congo has been embroiled in conflict for decades, particularly in the eastern regions, where various armed groups, including the M23 rebels, vie for territorial control. The M23 insurgency is reportedly backed by Rwanda and has exacerbated humanitarian conditions, leading to mass displacement and suffering among civilians. The United Nations has been called upon to take stronger action to address these challenges, as diplomatic measures have proven inadequate in resolving the ongoing crisis.
In conclusion, the urgent appeal by Foreign Minister Thérèse Kayikwamba Wagner to the UN Security Council reflects the dire circumstances facing the residents of Goma amid escalating conflicts. With thousands fleeing to safety and countless lives at stake, the demand for concrete actions including sanctions against the aggressors is critical to restoring peace and addressing the humanitarian crisis. The international community’s response, particularly that of the UN and the U.S., will be paramount in shaping the future of stability in the DRC.
Original Source: www.euronews.com
