DR Congo Cuts Diplomatic Ties with Rwanda as M23 Rebels Advance Towards Goma
The Democratic Republic of the Congo has cut diplomatic ties with Rwanda as the M23 rebel group approaches Goma amid intense conflict. With significant casualties reported, the humanitarian situation worsens as civilians flee. Rwanda is accused of supporting the rebels, although it denies such claims. An emergency U.N. meeting was convened to address escalating violence and humanitarian concerns in the region.
The Democratic Republic of the Congo has severed diplomatic relations with Rwanda amidst the escalating threat posed by the M23 rebel group, which is approaching the eastern city of Goma. Amid ongoing confrontations, at least 13 peacekeepers and foreign soldiers have lost their lives, resulting in mass civilian displacement. M23 has made considerable advances near the Rwandan border, intensifying fears for the safety of Goma’s approximately two million residents.
The Congolese government, along with the United States and U.N. experts, has accused Rwanda of supporting M23, a rebel group primarily composed of ethnic Tutsis. This group originated from Congolese armed forces over a decade ago and is one of nearly 100 armed entities vying for control in this mineral-rich region, characterized by severe humanitarian crises. Rwanda’s government denies these allegations but has confirmed the presence of its troops in eastern Congo to address security concerns.
In a decisive move, Congo’s Foreign Ministry announced the immediate cessation of diplomatic ties with Rwanda and the withdrawal of all diplomatic personnel from the country. An emergency meeting convened by the U.N. Security Council was expedited to address the worsening violence, demonstrating the international community’s concern regarding the situation.
Heavy gunfire was reported on the outskirts of Goma as civilians fled areas deemed dangerous. Displaced individuals, including children and adults from the Kanyaruchinya camp, expressed fears of starvation and violence. The exodus has prompted many to seek refuge in Goma, despite concerns about ongoing threats in the city itself.
Efforts to escape to Rwanda were observed, but officials closely monitored border crossings. Some Goma residents expressed desperation in seeking safety. Earlier in the week, M23 captured Sake, raising alarm about Goma’s imminent vulnerability. The Congolese army reported successfully repelling an M23 attack with the aid of allied forces, including U.N. personnel and troops from the Southern African Development Community Mission.
Sadly, tensions have escalated, leading to the loss of several peacekeepers from South Africa, Uruguay, and Malawi during recent confrontations. The situation marks a critical juncture in eastern Congo, where the long-standing presence of U.N. peacekeepers has remained essential in stabilizing the region.
The conflict in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, particularly in the eastern region, has a complex history involving various armed groups, ethnic tensions, and international interventions. The M23 rebel group, known for its ties to Rwanda, has frequently engaged in hostilities against the Congolese government, leading to significant loss of life and humanitarian crises. This ongoing strife has drawn the attention of global powers, highlighting the challenges of regional security and human rights.
The severing of diplomatic ties by the Democratic Republic of the Congo with Rwanda underlines a grave escalation in the ongoing conflict influenced by the M23 rebel group. As Goma faces increased threats, the international community’s engagement becomes crucial. Unresolved tensions between governments and non-state actors in this region continue to substantiate the humanitarian crises that affect countless civilians.
Original Source: www.france24.com
