M23 and Rwandan Forces Escalate Conflict in Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo

The M23 and Rwandan forces have launched an offensive in eastern DRC, capturing Nyabibwe amid continuing violence following the seizure of Goma. Despite claims of a ceasefire, clashes with Congolese forces indicate a deepening crisis, with diplomatic initiatives underway to address the conflict’s ramifications for regional stability.

On Wednesday, the M23 and Rwandan forces initiated a new offensive in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), capturing the mining town of Nyabibwe in South Kivu province, only 100 kilometers from Bukavu. This escalation follows the M23’s recent takeover of Goma in North Kivu, where they had declared a unilateral ceasefire that turned out to be a tactic rather than an intention for peace.

Despite claiming they do not aim to control Bukavu or surrounding areas, intense fighting erupted early Wednesday between the M23, backed by Rwandan troops, and the Congolese armed forces. Congolese government spokesman Patrick Muyaya criticized the ceasefire declaration as a mere façade.

The conflict has persisted for over three years, with multiple ceasefires brokered and subsequently violated. Observers noted that both the Congolese army and M23 forces are reinforcing their military presence in the region, indicating preparations for continued combat.

The recent violence, particularly the capture of Goma, has raised alarms of potential wider conflicts, prompting regional and international stakeholders, including the United Nations and the European Union, to pursue diplomatic resolutions. The stability of Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi’s administration, elected for a second term in December 2023, weighs heavily on the outcome of these hostilities.

Leaders such as Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame are set to participate in an upcoming summit in Dar es Salaam, hosted by the East African Community. Concurrently, a UN Human Rights Council session is scheduled to discuss the crisis following a Kinshasa request.

In light of the ongoing turmoil, neighboring nations have strengthened their defenses. Uganda has adopted a ‘forward defensive posture’ to prevent exploitation by various armed groups in the region. Additionally, Burundi’s President Evariste Ndayishimiye expressed concern over possible Rwandan intentions against his country, emphasizing their readiness to respond.

Reports from UN experts indicate that Rwanda maintains significant military personnel in DRC, contributing to the M23’s operational capacities. Although Rwanda denies direct involvement, it claims the DRC shelters hostile groups that threaten its security interests.

Eastern DRC is rich in resources crucial for technology, raising international stakes as the violence persists. The M23’s actions, alongside international diplomatic efforts, underscore the complex intertwining of local and geopolitical dynamics in this tumultuous region.

The ongoing conflict involves the M23 armed group, allegedly backed by Rwandan forces, which has been fighting the Congolese army for several years in the eastern DRC. This area, rich in valuable minerals like coltan and gold, has been plagued by instability and armed clashes for decades, complicating peace efforts. The international community, including the United Nations and regional organizations, remains actively involved in seeking a resolution to the crisis, which has significant implications for regional stability and security. The DRC has faced numerous ceasefires, which have repeatedly been violated, raising skepticism about the parties’ genuine willingness to pursue peace.Diplomatic efforts are crucial as each escalation of violence endangers not only the DRC but also destabilizes neighboring countries like Rwanda and Burundi, which have a historical context of conflict with each other arising from the 1994 Rwandan genocide.

In conclusion, the renewed military actions by M23 and Rwandan forces highlight the fragility of the ceasefire agreements and the complexities of negotiating peace in the eastern DRC. The international community’s involvement remains critical as the violence threatens to spiral into a more extensive regional crisis. Diplomatic discussions and regional collaborations will be vital in addressing the underlying issues contributing to this persistent conflict.

Original Source: www.rfi.fr