UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called for urgent action to save the Democratic Republic of the Congo from escalating conflict due to M23 forces backed by Rwanda. He warned that continued violence threatens the DRC’s territorial integrity and regional stability. The M23’s recent military advances, including the capture of Kavumu airport, have provoked responses from regional and international authorities, emphasizing the need for decisive action against further incursions.
United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has raised serious concerns regarding the ongoing conflict in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) amidst advances by M23 forces, which are reportedly backed by Rwanda. Speaking at the African Union (AU) summit in Addis Ababa, he emphasized the critical need to preserve the DRC’s territorial integrity and insisted that any regional escalation of the conflict must be avoided at all costs.
The M23 fighters have allegedly seized control of the Kavumu airport near Bukavu, the capital of South Kivu province. During his address, Guterres warned that the ongoing violence in the area, fueled by the M23 offensive, poses a significant threat to regional stability. Reports indicate that explosions have been heard in Bukavu, and there have been casualties as a consequence of the recent assaults.
With the specter of an escalating conflict looming, criticism has emerged regarding the AU’s response, with many observers calling for more decisive actions from the bloc. Local reports indicated that M23 commanders are actively working to consolidate control over Bukavu, raising alarm about their dominance in the mineral-rich regions of South Kivu and North Kivu.
The situation has been exacerbated by accusations directed at Rwanda, which denies providing military support to M23 but claims that Hutu extremists threaten its national security. Recent UN reports suggest that Kigali maintains military presence in the DRC and exercises significant influence over the rebel group. The AU, through its chair, has called for adherence to a ceasefire to prevent further escalation.
Additionally, Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi condemned Rwanda’s activities as expansionist during the Munich Security Conference, urging international action. Meanwhile, the European Union has expressed alarm over the military developments, indicating it is exploring its options in response to the M23’s offensive actions and the violation of the DRC’s sovereignty.
In summary, the ongoing conflict in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, characterized by the aggressive advance of M23 forces, presents a critical risk to regional stability. Calls to action have emerged from both the AU and the EU, with a focus on preserving territorial integrity and addressing the allegations of Rwandan involvement. The international community must respond decisively to mitigate the conflict’s expansion and uphold peace efforts in the region.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
