The DRC has cut diplomatic ties with Rwanda as the M23 rebel group, allegedly supported by Kigali, advances towards Goma, leading to significant casualties and civilian displacement. The rebels’ territorial gains threaten a major humanitarian crisis in the region, prompting an urgent U.N. Security Council meeting.
The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has severed diplomatic relations with Rwanda amid escalating violence from the M23 rebel group, alleged to be supported by Kigali, which is approaching Goma, a major eastern city. This move was precipitated by intense fighting around Goma, resulting in the deaths of 13 peacekeepers and foreign soldiers, and displacing thousands of civilians.
The M23 rebels have gained significant ground in recent weeks, threatening to overrun Goma, a provincial capital of two million people and a key humanitarian center. The United States, the DRC, and U.N. experts have accused Rwanda of supporting M23, comprised predominantly of ethnic Tutsis, who separated from the Congolese army over a decade ago. This conflict has contributed to one of the largest humanitarian crises globally, with numerous armed factions vying for control in the mineral-rich region.
Rwanda’s government, while denying direct support for M23, confirmed having troops and missile systems in eastern Congo to secure its borders, citing concerns over a build-up of Congolese forces. U.N. estimates indicate the presence of approximately 4,000 Rwandan troops in the DRC. In response to the escalating situation, the DRC’s foreign ministry announced the immediate withdrawal of its diplomatic staff from Rwanda.
A critical emergency meeting of the U.N. Security Council was expedited at the request of Congo, initially set for the following day. On the ground, heavy gunfire echoed in Goma, as thousands of residents fled to safety amidst fears of imminent violence. Displacement camps near the Rwandan border reported families fleeing due to perceived threats from armed forces.
Displaced individuals expressed fears about their safety in Goma, where they had sought refuge. Reports highlighted attempts by residents to cross into Rwanda, seeking sanctuary from the conflict. The M23 coalition captured Sake earlier in the week, heightening fears that Goma might soon be compromised.
In response to M23’s aggression, Congo’s military successfully repelled an offensive with support from U.N. troops and allied forces. Tragically, there were multiple casualties among peacekeepers, including two South African and one Uruguayan soldiers earlier in the week, while numerous Malawian peacekeepers also lost their lives in the clashes.
Since 2021, the Congolese government, alongside associated forces, has worked to prevent M23 from capturing Goma. The U.N. peacekeeping force, known as MONUSCO, has operated in the DRC for over twenty years, maintaining a contingent of around 14,000 peacekeepers currently stationed in the country.
The Democratic Republic of the Congo has been embroiled in conflict for decades, especially in its eastern regions, primarily due to the presence of numerous armed groups seeking control over rich mineral resources. Among these, the M23 rebel group emerged more than a decade ago, composed mainly of ethnic Tutsis. Tensions with Rwanda have historically been significant, particularly regarding accusations of Rwandan support for these rebel factions. The region has witnessed recurring humanitarian crises due to ongoing violence and instability, prompting international concern.
The severance of ties between the DRC and Rwanda signifies a grave escalation of conflict as the M23 rebel group continues its advance towards Goma, highlighting a deepening humanitarian crisis and regional insecurity. With accusations of Rwandan support for the rebels, the international community, including the U.N. Security Council, is closely monitoring the situation. The continued violence poses severe risks to thousands of civilians, underscoring the urgency for a resolution to the ongoing turmoil.
Original Source: www.france24.com
