The DRC has called for UN sanctions against Rwanda, accusing it of a ‘declaration of war’ by deploying troops to reinforce the M23 rebel group near Goma. The DRC is urging targeted sanctions while tensions escalate, leading to violence and casualties among peacekeepers. The situation has drawn international calls for a ceasefire and diplomatic resolution as both nations withdraw their diplomats amidst rising concerns over a humanitarian crisis.
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has urged the United Nations to impose sanctions on Rwanda, alleging that Rwanda has made a “declaration of war” by deploying additional troops to the border. This escalation involves reinforcements joining the Rwandan-backed M23 rebel group, which is reportedly advancing towards Goma, the capital of North Kivu province. There have been casualties among foreign peacekeepers amid increasing violence attributed to the fighting between Congolese forces and the M23.
During an emergency UN Security Council meeting, DRC’s Foreign Minister, Therese Kayikwamba Wagner, accused Rwanda of openly violating Congolese sovereignty. She described the troop deployment as a direct attack rather than a diplomatic matter, emphasizing the urgent need for accountability. Estimates suggest that 500 to 1,000 Rwandan soldiers crossed into DRC on Sunday, escalating tensions in the region.
Relations between DRC and Rwanda have deteriorated, with both countries withdrawing their diplomats. After the cancellation of peace talks, the M23 intensified its assault on Goma, a strategic city with a large population of local residents and displaced individuals. Reports indicate heavy shelling in the city and military actions, including a drone strike by Rwandan forces.
International voices, including that of UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, have called for an immediate ceasefire, urging Rwanda to cease its support for the M23 and withdraw its troops from DRC territory. Concerns have been raised that Rwanda is exploiting the conflict to gain access to DRC’s mineral resources, prompting further calls for a mineral export ban on Rwandan-labeled goods.
The DRC’s proposal for a total embargo on Rwandan minerals was highlighted by Minister Kayikwamba. Meanwhile, the UN has been responding to increasing violence by evacuating non-essential personnel from Goma, a city that has seen repeated conflict over the decades. The DRC has experienced protracted violence due to rival militia groups and armed factions vying for control, intensifying concerns regarding security in the region.
The Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda have a complex history marked by tension, particularly regarding territorial integrity and resource exploitation. The M23 rebel group, which has ties to Rwanda, has been involved in various conflicts within the DRC over the past several decades. Recent escalations have heightened fears of potential widespread conflict, as external intervention becomes more pronounced. With the DRC being a site of rich mineral resources, the international community has also joined in calling for restraint and peace efforts.
In conclusion, the escalating conflict between the Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda, particularly the actions of the Rwandan-backed M23 group, has led to urgent appeals for UN intervention and sanctions against Rwanda. The humanitarian situation in Goma is precarious as violence intensifies and international condemnation grows. The continued presence of foreign peacekeepers and the need for diplomatic solutions are critical as the region faces potential instability due to the ongoing conflict.
Original Source: www.citizentribune.com
