President Felix Tshisekedi of the DRC announced a vigorous military response to the M23 rebel group’s advances, which have led to significant territorial losses, especially around Goma. The ongoing conflict, fueled by the backing of Rwanda, has resulted in rising humanitarian needs and regional tensions. Calls for diplomatic resolution have been made, but Tshisekedi’s government remains critical of international inaction.
On Wednesday, President Felix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) declared that the Congolese military is mounting a “vigorous” response to the escalating threat posed by the M23 rebel group, which is reportedly backed by Rwanda. The M23 has captured expansive territories in eastern DRC, including the vital city of Goma, raising alarms over a potential humanitarian crisis due to ongoing conflicts involving numerous armed groups in the region.
In his address, Tshisekedi condemned the international community for its perceived indifference in response to the deteriorating security situation, stating, “Your silence and inaction… are an affront” to DRC. He emphasized that a coordinated military counteraction against the rebels and their supporters is in progress, as he warned that the conflict could escalate throughout the broader Great Lakes region.
As of Wednesday, reports indicated that M23 fighters continued to advance, having taken control of two districts in South Kivu after overpowering Congolese army forces in North Kivu. The chaos surrounding the M23’s advances has resulted in significant casualties and an influx of humanitarian needs, leading to severe shortages of food and water in Goma, according to local residents.
Amid international calls for a resolution, Tshisekedi did not attend emergency talks with Rwandan President Paul Kagame. The East African Community urged DRC’s government to engage directly with the M23 and other factions, while Angola highlighted the necessity for urgent diplomatic discussions between the DRC and Rwanda.
The current situation in Goma has led to widespread unrest, including protests in Kinshasa directed at foreign embassies, accusing international powers of failing to alleviate the security crisis. In response to the escalating tensions, the U.S. and Belgium have issued warnings to their citizens and ordered evacuations from the DRC.
Despite international pressure for Rwanda to withdraw its troops, officials have stated that the M23’s advance is likely to continue, with possible implications for the capital, Kinshasa. The DRC continues to accuse Rwanda of seeking to exploit its mineral resources, a claim supported by UN assessments of Rwanda’s military involvement in the region.
The eastern Democratic Republic of Congo has long been a region plagued by instability due to various armed factions, partially influenced by the aftermath of the 1994 Rwandan genocide. The M23 rebel group has recently intensified its offensive, capturing significant areas and causing widespread humanitarian distress. President Tshisekedi’s remarks reflect the urgent need for effective military and diplomatic responses to address both the rebel threat and the international community’s engagement in the crisis.
In summary, the escalating conflict in eastern DRC, particularly due to M23’s advances, has prompted a politically charged atmosphere both domestically and internationally. President Tshisekedi’s insistence on a strong military response underscores the gravity of the situation, as humanitarian needs grow and calls for engagement with stakeholders, including the M23, increase. The international community’s response remains critical as the DRC confronts not only a security crisis but also a potential regional destabilization.
Original Source: www.france24.com
