DR Congo Foreign Minister Urges UN Action as M23 Rebels Seize Goma
Thérèse Kayikwamba Wagner, the DR Congo’s foreign minister, has called for the UN to take decisive action against M23 rebels who have taken over Goma, as thousands flee to Rwanda due to escalating violence. She emphasized the need for sanctions against Rwandan forces and an embargo on resource exploitation to curb the ongoing conflict.
The foreign minister of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Thérèse Kayikwamba Wagner, has urgently appealed to the United Nations Security Council for decisive action following the M23 rebels’ takeover of Goma. As thousands of residents flee to the Rwandan border amid escalating violence, Wagner insists that rhetoric alone is insufficient to address the ongoing humanitarian crisis, asserting that concrete interventions are necessary.
Wagner condemned Rwanda’s role in the conflict, stating, “Rwanda cannot be allowed to continue to act with impunity,” and called for the withdrawal of irregular fighters from Congolese territory. She emphasized that a sustainable and peaceful resolution to the conflict is unattainable without this critical step.
In addition, she urged the Security Council to impose targeted sanctions against the Rwandan Defence Forces to disrupt their operational capacity against the DRC. Wagner also requested an embargo on Rwanda’s illicit resource exploitation, indicating that halting these activities is vital to disrupting financing for the aggression in the region.
On the same day, the United States echoed Wagner’s plea, urging the Council to take actionable steps against the M23 rebels, primarily composed of ethnic Tutsis. Rwandan President Paul Kagame expressed support for an immediate ceasefire and the need to address the root causes of the long-standing conflict.
While Goma appears relatively calm following the M23’s assertion of control, the city remains besieged, with residents lacking essential supplies. Wagner highlighted the dire humanitarian situation, stating, “Millions have been displaced,” and urged the international community to take action before further lives are lost.
The M23 rebels announced their intention to establish an administration in Goma to facilitate the return of displaced individuals and restore normalcy to their lives. As one of many armed groups vying for influence in North Kivu province, the M23’s consolidation of power raises concerns regarding stability in a region rich in vital minerals.
The Democratic Republic of the Congo has been embroiled in conflict for decades, particularly in its eastern regions such as North Kivu. The M23 rebel group, which is predominantly composed of ethnic Tutsis, has been involved in skirmishes and territorial battles, often with alleged support from Rwanda. The recent escalation in violence surrounding the city of Goma has led to significant humanitarian consequences, including mass displacement and a lack of basic services for civilians. The international community, through the United Nations, has been called to play a more active role in addressing the crisis and recommending viable solutions to stabilize the region.
In summary, the conflict in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, particularly around Goma, has reached a critical juncture as M23 rebels consolidate control and thousands flee to safety. Foreign Minister Wagner’s calls for UN intervention reflect the urgent need for international support to alleviate suffering caused by ongoing aggression. The situation necessitates not only diplomatic dialogue but also concrete actions to ensure lasting peace and security in the region.
Original Source: www.euronews.com
