DR Congo Seeks UN Action Against Rwanda Amid Warfare Escalation

The DRC has called upon the UN to sanction Rwanda for allegedly engaging in military aggression by deploying troops to support the M23 group near Goma. This escalation has led to increased fatalities among peacekeepers and prompted urgent diplomatic meetings. The DRC seeks an embargo on Rwandan mineral exports amidst calls for a ceasefire and withdrawal of foreign forces.

On Sunday, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) urged the United Nations to impose sanctions on Rwanda, claiming that the latter’s troop movements constituted a “declaration of war.” The DRC government alleged that Rwandan reinforcements were supporting the M23 military group, which is advancing towards Goma, the capital of North Kivu province. The situation escalated with the reported presence of Rwandan soldiers aiding the M23 forces against Congolese troops defending Goma.

The DRC’s Foreign Minister, Therese Kayikwamba Wagner, condemned Rwanda’s actions as a breach of national sovereignty, stating, “This is a frontal assault, a declaration of war that no longer hides behind diplomatic artifice.” The emergency UN Security Council meeting underscored the crisis, with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres calling for an immediate withdrawal of Rwandan forces from DRC territory.

In recent hostilities, around a dozen foreign peacekeepers have been killed. The ongoing conflict has led to rising tensions between DRC and Rwanda, resulting in the withdrawal of diplomats from each nation’s capital. Reports suggest that 500 to 1,000 Rwandan soldiers were sent to bolster M23 fighters near Goma, further complicating the humanitarian situation in the region.

Kinshasa has also demanded a total export embargo on Rwandan-labeled minerals, especially gold, to prevent the diversion of resources potentially benefiting Rwanda. The DRC has seen persistent violence over the past three decades due to various armed groups, with renewed focus on the activities of the M23 and its support from Rwanda. The UN has begun evacuating non-essential staff from Goma amidst escalating violence and threats to peacekeeper safety.

The ongoing conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo has deep historical roots, linked to competition among armed groups and external interventions, particularly involving Rwanda. Relations between the DRC and Rwanda have often been strained over issues surrounding armed groups like the M23 that operate across their borders. This crisis has reignited tensions, leading to calls for international intervention and sanctions against those deemed responsible for exacerbating the violence. UN peacekeeping forces, stationed in the DRC, have long been involved in attempts to stabilize the region but face enormous challenges in the face of continued military confrontations. The mineral wealth of the DRC, including gold, has been a focal point in the geopolitical conflicts, with various actors vying for access and control. Recent troop movements and battles have resulted in increased casualties and displacement of civilians, prompting urgent calls for international action.

In summary, the DRC has explicitly accused Rwanda of conducting hostile troop deployments that breach national sovereignty, resulting in heightened military conflict near Goma. The UN Security Council’s involvement is pivotal, as the DRC seeks punitive measures against Rwandan officials and an immediate ceasefire. The volatile situation underscores the complexity of regional dynamics, with significant humanitarian implications and calls for international accountability.

Original Source: www.dailygazette.com