Rwanda’s President Kagame has defended his nation’s military actions in eastern Congo after M23 rebels captured Goma and advanced south. The international community is concerned, with the U.S. expressing distress and Germany ceasing aid talks. Kagame criticized regional diplomats for failing to manage the conflict, while also challenging South African President Ramaphosa’s assertions regarding Rwandan military involvement.
Rwandan President Paul Kagame responded defiantly to criticism regarding his country’s involvement in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, emphasizing Kigali’s readiness for “confrontation” if necessary. M23 rebels, backed by Rwandan forces, captured the city of Goma and are now advancing south, posing significant escalations in a long-standing conflict. The international community expressed concern, prompting the United States to voice its “deeply troubled” sentiments, with Germany halting aid discussions and Britain reconsidering its financial support to Rwanda.
Kagame addressed an emergency summit of the East African Community, criticizing neighboring countries for the failure of diplomatic strategies and claiming he anticipated the current conflict due to inadequate leadership in negotiations. Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi did not attend this summit and instead announced military efforts to regain control over lost territories. Kagame also challenged comments from South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, who directly linked the fighting to Rwandan military involvement and called for a peaceful resolution.
The ongoing tension in eastern Congo can be traced back to historical conflicts stemming from the Rwandan genocide in 1994, which led to sustained military interventions by Rwanda. The M23 group is one of several ethnic Tutsi-led insurgencies that have emerged since then, fueled by the aftermath of the genocide and Rwanda’s claims regarding threats from militia groups in Congo. The dynamics between Rwanda and Congo, including Rwanda’s backing of militias, complicate regional security and humanitarian efforts.
In summary, the current situation in eastern Congo, marked by the fall of Goma to M23 rebels supported by Rwanda, has elicited significant criticism and concern from the international community. Kagame remains unyielding amidst the backlash, asserting Rwanda’s right to respond to perceived threats. This escalation could further destabilize the region, prompting calls for a ceasefire and diplomatic engagement.
Original Source: www.usnews.com
