Rwanda-Backed M23 Rebels Seize Kavumu Airport, Escalate DRC Conflict
M23 rebels have seized Kavumu airport in South Kivu province, claiming a crucial victory against the Congolese army. Reports suggest they are advancing towards Bukavu and possibly Kinshasa, the capital. The conflict has displaced over 350,000 people and resulted in significant fatalities. DRC President Felix Tshisekedi is pursuing international support amid escalating tensions and instability.
The Rwandan-supported M23 rebels claim to have captured Kavumu airport in South Kivu province, marking their control of a significant strategic site for the Congolese military. This announcement follows a concerted effort by the rebels, who had previously seized Goma earlier this year. Reports regarding this assertion are yet to be independently verified, although local sources indicate proximity of the rebel forces to the city of Bukavu and airport itself.
The M23 rebels, one among over 100 armed groups active in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, have expressed intentions to continue their advance toward Kinshasa, the capital. Despite declaring a ceasefire, spokesperson Lawrence Kanyuka emphasized the need for clarity regarding the rebels’ plans: “It must be made clear that we have no intention of capturing Bukavu or other areas.”
The conflict has displaced around 350,000 individuals since January, with disturbing reports of nearly 3,000 deaths. The M23 group, bolstered by approximately 4,000 Rwandan troops, contrasts significantly with the numbers present during their previous incursion in 2012, which was curtailed due to international pressure. Rwanda frames its involvement as a protective measure for ethnic Tutsis vulnerable to Hutu groups linked to historical atrocities.
In light of the violence, President Felix Tshisekedi of the DRC is actively seeking global support to resolve the crisis. His recent travel to the Munich Security Conference in Germany and impending attendance at the African Union summit in Addis Ababa signify efforts to garner broader assistance against the insurgency. This quest for international allies underscores the urgency and complexity of the situation in eastern DRC.
The M23 rebels have reportedly taken control of Kavumu airport in South Kivu, intensifying the ongoing conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo, which has resulted in significant displacement and casualties. This escalation reflects the rebels’ ambition to advance towards the capital, Kinshasa, while the DRC government seeks international support to restore stability in the region. The situation remains critical as local populations face increasing threats from armed groups backed by foreign involvement such as Rwanda.
Original Source: news.sky.com
