Rwandan President Kagame has rebuffed South African President Ramaphosa’s claims of Rwandan support for M23 rebels in the DRC, warning of confrontation. The tensions escalated following the death of South African soldiers during fighting in Goma, leading to diplomatic disputes. Both nations contest their involvement while seeking stability in the mineral-rich eastern Congo region.
Rwandan President Paul Kagame has sharply criticized South African President Cyril Ramaphosa following accusations that Rwanda is supporting the M23 rebels amidst rising tensions in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Kagame labeled Ramaphosa’s statements as false and threatened possible confrontation, underscoring escalating diplomatic tensions between the two nations. South Africa has troops engaged in peacekeeping efforts in the DRC, but the recent violence has raised significant concerns about their safety and mission effectiveness.
The conflict in eastern Congo has continued for over three decades, primarily due to the aftermath of the 1994 Rwandan genocide, which resulted in perpetrators fleeing into Congolese territory. The area is rich in minerals, making it a point of contention as Rwanda alleges that these groups pose a threat to its national security. Mistrust between the DRC and Rwanda persists, particularly regarding Rwanda’s alleged support for the M23 rebel group.
The ongoing exchanges between South Africa and Rwanda underscore a critical diplomatic rift that stems from accusations of military support amid the violence in eastern Congo. Both nations appear to be at a crossroads, with Rwanda rejecting claims of militia involvement while South Africa calls for a cessation of hostilities, further complicating an already volatile situation in the region.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
