DRC Accuses Rwanda of Illegal Occupation Amid M23 Conflict

The DRC’s foreign minister accuses Rwanda of illegal occupation amid M23’s capture of Goma. The region faces a severe humanitarian crisis, with thousands displaced and calls for international intervention increasing. Rwanda denies ties to M23 while SADC convenes emergency meetings following violence that resulted in multiple peacekeeper fatalities.

The Democratic Republic of Congo’s foreign minister has accused Rwanda of illegally occupying parts of its territory amid ongoing conflict with the M23 rebel group, which has recently captured Goma. According to Foreign Minister Therese Kayikwamba Wagner, Rwanda seeks to instigate a regime change within the DRC as international authorities have not held Rwandan President Paul Kagame accountable for alleged violations of international law.

The M23 rebel forces have made significant strides in the eastern province of South Kivu, which borders Burundi and Rwanda. Despite persistent denials from Rwanda regarding any ties to M23, accusations have surged amidst the rebel group’s territorial advances. Rwanda’s government spokesperson Yolande Makolo emphasized that their troops aim to contain conflict rather than engage in warfare or annexation.

Following the takeover of Goma, the largest city in North Kivu Province, residents are facing severe threats, including violence and starvation, exacerbated by the loss of water and electricity. Approximately 178,000 Congolese individuals have reportedly been displaced, as the M23 continues to exploit the region’s rich resources.

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed concern over the potential for a regional conflict resulting from M23’s advances, demanding an end to hostilities. The United States echoed this message, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio labeling the situation as “deeply troubling” following a conversation with President Kagame.

Meanwhile, the Southern African Development Community (SADC) convened an emergency meeting to address the escalating security crisis, as recent violence has led to the deaths of several peacekeeping soldiers, including those from South Africa, Malawi, and Tanzania. President Cyril Ramaphosa attributed the ongoing conflict to aggressive actions by both M23 and Rwandan forces against the DRC and SADC peacekeepers.

The Democratic Republic of Congo has been facing ongoing conflicts involving numerous armed groups, notably M23, which has seized strategic territories amidst accusations of Rwandan support. The tensions have escalated significantly, prompting international calls for ceasefires and interventions from regional bodies like the Southern African Development Community (SADC) to stabilize the situation. Resource exploitation in the mineral-rich eastern Congo remains a critical concern amid the humanitarian crisis, characterized by widespread displacement and violence against civilians.

The accusation by the DRC foreign minister against Rwanda highlights the complexities of the ongoing conflict, underscoring the growing humanitarian crisis as violence escalates and civilians bear the consequences. International bodies continue to call for action to address the situation and prevent further destabilization in the region, while regional peacekeeping forces face increasing risks in the escalating hostilities.

Original Source: www.upi.com