UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has raised alarms over the escalating conflict in the Democratic Republic of the Congo as M23 forces capture territory, including Kavumu airport. He emphasizes the need to maintain the DRC’s territorial integrity and prevent further regional escalation. Criticisms are directed towards the African Union’s lack of decisive action, while the European Union contemplates possible sanctions against Rwanda for its role in the conflict.
United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has expressed urgent concerns regarding the escalating violence in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), as the M23 rebel group gains territory in the eastern region. During an address at the African Union summit in Addis Ababa, Guterres emphasized the importance of maintaining the DRC’s territorial integrity and warned that further regional escalation must be avoided at all costs.
Reports indicate that M23 forces have taken control of Kavumu airport near the provincial capital of Bukavu, intensifying the threat of conflict spreading across the region. Guterres highlighted that the ongoing fighting jeopardizes stability and could push the region into deeper conflict, although he refrained from directly naming Rwanda’s involvement.
Local media reported explosions in Bukavu along with casualties, raising alarm about the deteriorating situation. As M23 continues to secure positions in the South Kivu province, criticisms of the African Union’s response have arisen, with many calling for more assertive actions. Military officials reportedly fled from Kavumu airport amidst M23’s aggressive tactics leading to their control over vital mineral-rich areas.
Rwanda has denied military support for M23, though it claims to be acting against threats from Hutu groups in the DRC. Nonetheless, a UN expert report indicated Rwanda’s involvement, estimating the presence of about 4,000 Rwandan soldiers within the DRC. The AU has called for an urgent ceasefire, while discussions about regional mobilization continue, albeit without the attendance of relevant national leaders.
During the Munich Security Conference, Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi condemned Rwanda’s actions, urging international bodies to impose sanctions against it. Meanwhile, the European Union has expressed alarm over the rebel advances and is considering various responses, including reviewing its support for Rwanda. Anouar el-Anouni, spokesperson for the European Commission, reaffirmed that violations against DRC’s sovereignty must not remain unchallenged.
In conclusion, the conflict in the Democratic Republic of the Congo is intensifying as M23 rebels advance, prompting alarm from international leaders, including UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. The situation has spurred discussions within the African Union and the European Union regarding potential responses, including sanctions against Rwanda, which is implicated in the conflict. The urgent call for a ceasefire highlights the necessity of protecting regional stability and DRC’s territorial integrity.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
