In a tragic escalation of violence in the Democratic Republic of Congo, at least 13 foreign peacekeepers have been killed in confrontations with M23 rebels, who are gaining ground near Goma. The DRC has terminated diplomatic relations with Rwanda, accusing it of supporting the rebels, amid a worsening humanitarian crisis that has displaced millions.
At least 13 foreign peacekeepers have lost their lives in recent skirmishes with M23 rebels in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), according to United Nations officials. The M23 group has recently expanded its control, surrounding Goma, a vital city with a population of around two million, crucial for security and humanitarian operations in the region.
M23, primarily composed of ethnic Tutsis who separated from the Congolese army over a decade ago, is one of approximately 100 armed factions competing for influence in the mineral-rich eastern DRC. The ongoing conflicts have resulted in one of the world’s most severe humanitarian crises, with immense displacement and casualties.
Accusations from the DRC towards neighboring Rwanda suggest that Rwanda has been supporting the M23 rebellion. In response to these claims, the DRC has ended diplomatic relations with Rwanda, demanding the cessation of diplomatic activities in Kinshasa. Rwanda refuted these allegations but acknowledged deploying troops in eastern Congo to protect its security interest.
A military source from the DRC stated, “Rwanda is trying to get in by all means, but we are holding firm. It is war, there are losses everywhere… the population must remain calm, we are fighting.” The DRC has also recalled its diplomats from Rwanda as tensions escalate.
In light of these developments, a UN Security Council meeting on the violence, initially scheduled for tomorrow, has been expedited to today. This change follows the killing of a Congolese military governor amid the ferocity of the M23 offensive late last week.
The DRC army has reportedly thwarted an M23 assault towards Goma, aided by allied forces, which include troops from the UN and the Southern African Development Community Mission (SAMIDRC). The destruction of a white armored vehicle marked with UN signs was seen on the route between Goma and Sake.
The Democratic Republic of Congo has a long history of conflict fueled by rival armed groups competing for resources and land, particularly in the eastern regions where wealth in minerals is abundant. The M23 rebellion, primarily consisting of ethnic Tutsis, has re-emerged, challenging the authority of the Congolese government and severely impacting the local population. The tension between the DRC and Rwanda adds a diplomatic layer to the already precarious security situation. The presence of UN peacekeepers has been ongoing for over two decades in the DRC. As of now, there are approximately 14,000 personnel deployed, known colloquially as ‘Blue Helmets’ due to their distinct blue uniforms. The humanitarian situation in the region has rapidly deteriorated, with millions displaced and countless lives lost due to violence. The ongoing battles between government forces and various armed groups threaten humanitarian efforts and heighten existing crises, underlining the fragility of peace in the region.
In summary, the recent clashes in the Democratic Republic of Congo have resulted in significant losses among peacekeeping forces amid escalating violence attributed to the M23 rebels. The DRC has severed diplomatic ties with Rwanda, accusing it of inciting the rebellion. The humanitarian crisis continues to worsen, highlighting the urgent need for effective international intervention and resolution to restore stability in the region.
Original Source: news.sky.com
