The DRC’s Foreign Minister has accused Rwanda of illegal occupation as the M23 rebel group captures Goma. Rwanda denies these claims, stating its troops aim to prevent conflict spread. The ongoing violence has led to a humanitarian crisis, with thousands displaced and calls for a ceasefire from the UN and the US, as regional security worsens.
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) Foreign Minister, Therese Kayikwamba Wagner, has accused Rwanda of illegally occupying Congolese territory following the capture of Goma by the M23 rebel group. Wagner suggested that Rwanda seeks to instigate regime change in the DRC amid a lack of international accountability for Rwandan President Paul Kagame’s actions. The M23’s operations have centered on South Kivu, a province sharing borders with Rwanda and Burundi.
Rwanda has denied any connection to the M23 rebels, asserting that its troops are only present to mitigate the spread of conflict within the region. Rwandan government spokesperson, Yolande Makolo, emphasized that their nation does not seek warfare, annexation, or regime change. Despite these claims, Goma, the largest city in North Kivu Province, faces a dire humanitarian situation, with risks of violence and famine affecting nearly two million residents.
There are ongoing allegations from Congolese officials that M23 is extracting valuable resources from the mineral-rich eastern Congo. The United Nations has supported these accusations in its reports. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has urged M23 to cease its offensive, withdraw from occupied territories, and comply with a proposed deadline of July 31, 2024.
In solidarity with the UN’s call for a ceasefire, the United States has endorsed swift action. Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressed deep concern regarding the situation following a conversation with President Kagame. This week, the Southern African Development Community (SADC) convened an emergency meeting to address the escalating security crisis in the eastern DRC, reflecting the urgency of the matter.
Recent conflicts have resulted in significant casualties among SADC peacekeeping troops, including 13 soldiers from South Africa. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa attributed the violence to the M23 rebel group and the Rwandan Defence Forces engaging DRC Armed Forces and attacking peacekeepers. Troops from Malawi and Tanzania have also suffered losses in their efforts to restore peace in the region.
The ongoing conflict involving the M23 rebel group in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo has drawn significant international attention. Accusations of Rwandan military involvement have emerged, particularly as the struggle intensifies around Goma, provoking concerns for regional stability and security. The presence of natural resources in this area raises the stakes in conflict, with both humanitarian crises and geopolitical implications at play. The international community, including the UN and US, is closely monitoring developments, advocating for peace and adherence to international law.
The recent accusations from the DRC Foreign Minister against Rwanda reflect heightened tensions amid the M23 rebel group’s advances. As claims of resource extraction and illegal occupation circulate, the humanitarian crisis in Goma deepens. The international response, underscored by calls from the UN and the US for immediate action, highlights the significance of maintaining regional stability. Continuing violence has taken a toll on peacekeeping efforts and underscores the urgent need for diplomatic solutions in the DRC.
Original Source: www.upi.com
