The M23 rebel group has intensified its offensive in eastern DRC, taking control of vital cities and displacing thousands of civilians. The UN Security Council has called on Rwanda to withdraw its support for M23, emphasizing the need for an immediate cessation of hostilities. The situation is chaotic, with reports of local military engagement diminishing and civilian suffering escalating as the conflict continues.
Rebels from the M23 group advanced in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) on Friday, prompting the UN Security Council’s first call for Rwanda to cease its support for the group. The M23, with an estimated 4,000 Rwandan soldiers backing them, has gained control over significant territories in this resource-rich region, leading to widespread displacement of civilians. Remarkably, the fighters have overtaken critical locations, including Bukavu and Goma, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis.
The UN Security Council has adopted a resolution that strongly condemns the M23’s offensive in North and South Kivu. It specifically calls for the Rwanda Defense Forces to discontinue their support of M23 and withdraw unconditionally from DRC territory. Previously, the Council had called for an immediate ceasefire but now openly criticizes Kigali, indicating a shift in their stance towards Rwandan involvement in the conflict.
Recent victories for the M23 have granted them access to Lake Kivu, and the resulting violence has created a humanitarian disaster, displacing over 50,000 Congolese to neighboring countries, such as Burundi and Uganda. The European Union has also summoned Rwanda’s ambassador, demanding the withdrawal of Rwandan troops. Amidst this chaos, the Congolese armed forces have been retreating with minimal resistance.
Observations indicate that few Congolese soldiers remain in conflict, with most withdrawing or failing to engage. Only the pro-Kinshasa militia, known as Wazalendo, continues to confront M23 forces in areas like Masisi, where daily skirmishes are reported. Despite these setbacks, M23 continues to push towards Uvira near the border with Burundi.
Recent reports suggest that over 42,000 individuals have fled into Burundi amid the ongoing violence. Uvira, now chaotic, has seen an influx of displaced soldiers and civilians. This turmoil has led to prison breaks, further compounding the state of disorder. Additionally, reports of local Congolese soldiers engaging in looting and violence against civilians have surfaced, raising serious concerns about morale and discipline within the Congolese military.
In response, the Congolese army has urged retreating soldiers to return, emphasizing the need to uphold order. Meanwhile, Ugandan troops have intervened to restore calm, although skepticism remains about Uganda’s relationship with M23. President Yoweri Museveni has denied intentions of military engagement against M23, asserting the complexities surrounding Uganda’s involvement in DRC’s internal struggles.
The M23 group’s advances in eastern DRC, supported by Rwandan forces, have prompted significant international concern and calls for immediate intervention. The UN’s resolution highlights the escalating humanitarian crisis as thousands flee the conflict, while the Congolese military faces challenges against the advancing rebels. As regional and international responses take shape, the situation remains precarious with ongoing violence and instability in the region.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
