DR Congo Calls on UN to Sanction Rwanda Amid Escalating Conflict
The Democratic Republic of Congo has called on the UN to sanction Rwanda, citing a declaration of war amid increased troop movements. The DRC accuses Rwanda of supporting the M23 rebels nearing the city of Goma, which has led to casualties among foreign peacekeepers. Amid growing international condemnation, calls for an immediate ceasefire and sanctions against Rwanda for its military involvement have intensified.
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has urged the United Nations (UN) to impose sanctions on Rwanda, accusing it of waging a war following the influx of Rwandan troops into DRC territory. In light of the approaching M23 rebel group towards Goma, the capital of North Kivu, DRC’s Foreign Minister, Therese Kayikwamba Wagner, described the troop movements as a blatant violation of national sovereignty. The UN estimates that between 500 and 1,000 Rwandan soldiers have reinforced the M23 forces over the weekend.
Escalating tensions led to the deaths of at least twelve foreign peacekeepers in recent skirmishes. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has appealed for Rwanda to withdraw its military support for the M23 and cease hostilities. The DRC and Rwanda have both withdrawn their diplomatic personnel amid deteriorating relations, which have worsened since the cancellation of peace talks between Rwandan President Paul Kagame and DRC President Felix Tshisekedi.
Heavy explosions have been reported in Goma, with residents facing new waves of displacement as fighting draws nearer. The African Union and United States have expressed increasing concern over the conflict, calling for an immediate ceasefire. Guterres emphasized the need for both the M23 and Rwanda to halt aggression and withdraw from DRC territory to foster peace.
In addition, Kayikwamba has urged the UN Security Council to implement strict sanctions against Rwandan officials involved in the conflict, including a total ban on exporting minerals labeled as Rwandan, particularly gold. Rwanda’s Foreign Affairs Minister announced the evacuation of the last Rwandan diplomat from DRC due to alleged threats from Congolese officials.
The long-standing conflict in eastern DRC has seen countless rival armed groups vie for control amidst persistent violence. Despite a significant UN peacekeeping presence in the region, violence continues to surge, with recent reports indicating the tragic loss of 13 peacekeepers from South Africa, Malawi, and Uruguay. The UN is now in the process of evacuating non-essential personnel from Goma to Uganda and Kinshasa as a precautionary measure.
The conflict between the Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda has deep roots, often linked to historical grievances, territorial disputes, and the struggle for control over mineral resources in the eastern DRC. The M23 rebel group, partially composed of Rwandan soldiers, has continually threatened the stability of the region, prompting multiple military interventions and peacekeeping efforts by the United Nations. As regional dynamics deteriorate, calls for international accountability have gained momentum, pressing the UN to take decisive action to prevent further escalation. The involvement of international peacekeepers, often facing criticism for their inability to maintain peace, highlights the complexity of the situation, making it imperative for the global community to engage in serious dialogue and intervention.
In summary, the escalating conflict between the DRC and Rwanda has raised urgent calls for UN intervention and sanctions against Rwanda for its military involvement. The stakes remain high as Goma teeters on the brink of conflict, with the potential for significant humanitarian crises looming. It is crucial that the international community responds promptly to the pleas for peace to restore stability in the region, prevent further civilian casualties, and ensure a diplomatic resolution is pursued.
Original Source: www.wyomingnewsnow.tv
