Congo has severed diplomatic relations with Rwanda as intense fighting rages near Goma, with significant losses among peacekeepers and thousands displaced. The M23 rebel group has gained territory around Goma, provoking international accusations against Rwanda for backing the insurgents. The UN Security Council is set to address the urgent situation amid growing humanitarian concerns and military casualties.
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has officially cut diplomatic relations with Rwanda amid intense fighting near the crucial city of Goma, where at least 13 peacekeepers and foreign soldiers have died, and thousands of civilians have been displaced. The M23 rebel group, which is accused of being backed by Rwanda, has made considerable territorial gains, encircling Goma, a provincial capital critical for security and humanitarian operations.
Accusations have emerged against Rwanda from the DRC, the United States, and UN experts, claiming that Rwanda supports the M23 rebels, primarily comprised of ethnic Tutsis. Rwanda, however, has denied these allegations but has admitted to deploying troops and missile systems within eastern Congo to safeguard its interests amid rising Congolese military presence near the border.
The Congolese foreign ministry has announced the immediate severance of all diplomatic ties with Rwanda and the withdrawal of its diplomatic staff. Following this, the UN Security Council has expedited an emergency meeting to address the escalating violence, which was originally planned for the next day, while Goma experiences continuous heavy fighting.
The situation remains dire, with heavy gunfire heard throughout Goma, provoking mass displacements as residents fled toward the city center from surrounding camps. Earlier in the week, the M23 rebels captured Sake, situated 27 kilometers from Goma, raising concerns over the potential fall of the city.
Congo’s military reported having successfully repelled M23 offensives, receiving assistance from allied forces that include UN troops and members of the Southern African Development Community Mission. Tragically, the recent clashes have resulted in casualties among peacekeepers, including South African soldiers and members from Uruguay and Malawi, highlighting the escalating violence in the area.
Since 2021, the DRC government has endeavored, alongside its allies, to placate the M23 threat. The UN peacekeeping forces, known as Monusco, have been active in the region for over two decades, currently fielding around 14,000 peacekeepers to stabilize the conflict-ridden areas.
The ongoing conflict in the DRC has its roots in complex historical tensions, particularly related to ethnic divisions and political instability. The emergence of multiple armed groups, particularly since the descent into turmoil following the Rwandan Genocide in 1994, has complicated peacekeeping efforts. The M23 has been one of many factions attempting to assert control over regions rich in minerals essential for global markets. The international community, including the United Nations, continues to focus on finding a resolution while ensuring humanitarian aid reaches affected populations. Rwanda’s alleged support for the M23 rebels raises questions about regional relations and security, prompting concerns regarding a potential spillover of violence that could destabilize the surrounding areas further. Diplomatic tensions, coupled with humanitarian crises, make the DRC’s situation particularly precarious, as the nation struggles with both internal strife and external pressures.
The severing of diplomatic ties between the DRC and Rwanda represents a significant escalation in an already volatile situation surrounding Goma. With heavy fighting continuing and numerous casualties among both peacekeepers and civilians, the urgent need for a resolution cannot be overstated. The international community’s involvement remains critical to address the roots of conflict and stabilize eastern Congo. The situation demands close attention, as the potential fallout could have widespread implications for regional security and humanitarian assistance.
Original Source: www.independent.co.uk
