M23 and Rwandan troops launched a new offensive in eastern DRC, seizing Nyabibwe while claiming a ceasefire. The Congolese government denounces the ceasefire as a ruse amidst escalating clashes. The capture of Goma resulted in extensive casualties, prompting international diplomatic efforts. Regional leaders prepare for summits as military tensions rise, with neighboring countries enhancing defenses.
The M23 armed group, supported by Rwandan forces, has initiated a new offensive in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), capturing the mining town of Nyabibwe in South Kivu province. This advance comes shortly after the group’s recent seizure of Goma in North Kivu, despite its declaration of a humanitarian ceasefire meant to take effect on Tuesday. Despite promises not to capture further territories, clashes erupted with Congolese armed forces shortly after the ceasefire announcement.
The occupation of Nyabibwe, located about 100 kilometers from Bukavu and approximately 70 kilometers from the provincial airport, underscores the DRC government’s skepticism regarding the M23’s claims. Congolese government spokesman Patrick Muyaya criticized the ceasefire declaration as insincere, reflecting a history of broken agreements in over three years of conflict involving multiple armed groups. Recent troop reinforcements have intensified the situation, increasing fears of a wider regional conflict.
The situation escalated significantly last week with M23’s capture of Goma, resulting in heavy casualties, as reported by the UN, with at least 900 fatalities and 2,880 injuries. Regional organizations, along with international mediators including the UN and the EU, are actively pursuing diplomatic solutions to the escalating violence. Observers note that the stability of President Felix Tshisekedi’s administration may be at stake if M23 continues expanding its control in eastern DRC.
Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame are anticipated to attend a summit of regional leaders in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, aimed at addressing the crisis. Additionally, the UN Human Rights Council is scheduled for a special session at Kinshasa’s request. In light of the unrest, neighboring countries have begun strengthening their military postures; Uganda has stated it would adopt a defensive strategy to deter threats from various armed groups in the DRC.
Accusations have intensified between Burundian and Rwandan leadership regarding potential destabilization activities. A UN report from the previous year indicated that Rwanda may have deployed up to 4,000 troops within the DRC, seeking to control valuable mineral resources, implicating Kigali in the ongoing conflict. Rwanda denies any direct military involvement but accuses the DRC of supporting the FDLR, an armed group linked to the 1994 Rwandan genocide.
The ongoing conflict in eastern DRC has persisted for over three decades, fueled by numerous armed groups and complex geopolitical dynamics. The region is rich in natural resources, provoking both local and international interest. Rwanda’s involvement has sparked longstanding tensions, particularly in relation to the historical context of the Rwandan genocide and refugee crises. Diplomatic efforts have been made by regional leaders and international bodies attempting to stabilize the area and address human rights violations amid the ongoing violence.
In summary, the recent offensive by M23 and Rwandan forces in eastern DRC marks a significant escalation in a longstanding conflict characterized by broken truces and humanitarian crises. Despite a declaration of ceasefire, violent clashes continue to threaten the stability of the region, prompting urgent diplomatic interventions. The evolving situation underscores the dire need for a sustainable resolution to restore peace and address the underlying issues of the conflict.
Original Source: www.rfi.fr
