UN Chief Issues Urgent Warning on Escalating Violence in DRC
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has raised alarms about escalating violence in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, emphasizing the necessity to maintain its territorial integrity. M23 forces have seized key locations, including Kavumu airport, leading to increased fears of regional conflict. International bodies are considering decisive responses to support the DRC and address Rwanda’s alleged involvement in the ongoing clashes.
United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has expressed grave concerns regarding the escalating conflict in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) during an African Union summit in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Emphasizing the need to protect the DRC’s “territorial integrity,” Guterres cautioned against potential regional escalation as the Rwanda-backed M23 forces intensified their offensive, recently attacking Bukavu, the capital of South Kivu province.
Guterres noted that the ongoing military actions in South Kivu pose a substantial threat not only to the DRC but also to the surrounding region. Reports from local media indicate that explosions were heard in Bukavu, resulting in injuries, further highlighting the urgent situation on the ground. With M23 forces claiming control of significant strategic locations such as Kavumu airport, there are rising fears of a regional crisis.
The M23 group, reportedly gaining ground, asserts it is working to secure Bukavu. Witnesses have described chaos at Kavumu airport, where Congolese army personnel reportedly fled amid violence from M23 in Goma. Control of not only South and North Kivu provinces but also key resources and supply routes has raised alarms internationally.
Meanwhile, although Rwanda has denied military support for M23, tension persists, with accusations regarding the involvement of Rwandan troops in the conflict. The African Union has faced criticism for its perceived inactivity as the situation deteriorates. Outgoing AU chair Moussa Faki Mahamat has called for adherence to a ceasefire, while Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi has criticized Rwanda’s actions at the Munich Security Conference.
In light of the escalating violence, the European Union is considering a range of significant responses to address the situation. The EU’s stance follows a resolution from the European Parliament advocating for the suspension of mineral trade with Rwanda due to its involvement and a push for freezing all forms of aid to the country. This call underscores the EU’s commitment to safeguarding the DRC’s sovereignty and its repercussions for Rwanda’s military actions.
In summary, the conflict in the DRC has escalated, with M23 forces gaining control in the eastern regions. The UN has called for the preservation of the DRC’s territorial integrity, warning that regional escalation must be avoided. International responses, including from the European Union, indicate a growing concern for the situation, urging tangible actions against perceived aggressions from Rwanda. The AU is under scrutiny for its response, as tensions rise in the region.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
