France is increasing diplomatic initiatives in response to escalating violence by M23 rebels in eastern DRC, leading to the displacement of hundreds of thousands. President Macron is facilitating discussions with regional leaders, emphasizing dialogue and stabilization. The humanitarian crisis is critical, with rising civilian casualties and injuries, and France is backing calls for international sanctions against Rwanda for its alleged support of the rebels.
French President Emmanuel Macron is intensifying diplomatic efforts in response to the escalating violence involving M23 rebels in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The conflict has led to significant displacement, with recent reports indicating that over 700,000 individuals have been forced to flee. Macron is advocating for dialogue among regional leaders, including Congolese President Félix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame, in efforts to stabilize the situation.
Macron’s discussions also include leaders from Kenya, South Africa, Congo-Brazzaville, and Angola, where he emphasizes the importance of restoring DRC sovereignty and fostering reconciliation between the DRC and Rwanda. The African Union’s mediator, Angolan President João Lourenço, continues to face challenges in facilitating dialogue between the two countries. France’s Foreign Ministry has expressed serious concerns regarding the deteriorating humanitarian conditions, particularly in Goma, the capital of North Kivu province.
As fighting intensifies, the humanitarian crisis escalates, with medical facilities overwhelmed by an influx of wounded civilians. Reports indicate significant fatalities, including 17 civilian deaths in recent clashes. The M23 rebels, allegedly supported by Rwandan soldiers, have made alarming advances in Goma, raising fears over regional stability.
The situation has led France to support international calls for sanctions against Rwanda, although the DRC government has criticized the UN Security Council’s response as inadequate. Congolese officials have called for a total embargo on minerals exported as Rwandan, particularly gold, in a bid to curb the perceived aggression.
Concurrent international efforts are unfolding, including an upcoming crisis summit mediated by Kenya’s President William Ruto. Additionally, the African Union’s Peace and Security Council is convening to deliberate on the urgent situation. The United States has reiterated its commitment to DRC’s sovereignty and emphasized the necessity for renewed negotiations with Rwanda as tensions persist in the region.
The eastern DRC has long been a site of conflict, primarily fueled by competition over its rich mineral resources and cross-border tensions, notably involving Rwanda. The M23 rebel group has been a significant actor in this unrest, which has seen numerous allegations of Rwandan support for their operations. This situation impacts not only the DRC but also regional stability, necessitating international diplomatic intervention.
The ongoing violence in eastern DRC has prompted a strong diplomatic response from France and other nations to mitigate humanitarian crises and restore peace. Efforts focus on dialogue among regional leaders while addressing the complex geopolitical issues involved, particularly the alleged Rwandan influence in supporting M23 rebels. Continued international cooperation and timely action are crucial to avert deeper crises in the region.
Original Source: www.rfi.fr
