Gunfire erupted in Goma as pro-Rwanda M23 forces advanced. The DRC accused Rwanda of sending additional troops, leading to calls for UN sanctions. Over 13 peacekeepers have died amid escalated tensions, further straining relations between the two countries. The DRC demands an embargo on Rwandan mineral exports, emphasizing the conflict’s deep economic roots.
Gunfire erupted on Sunday night in Goma, the capital of North Kivu province in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), as the city faced intense pressure from the pro-Rwanda M23 movement. This escalation follows accusations by the DRC government that Rwanda has sent additional troops into Congo, a move they view as a declaration of war. The situation has led to large explosions and direct engagements between the M23 fighters, supported by Rwandan forces, and the Congolese army poised at the city’s gates.
In light of the heightened tensions, the DRC’s Foreign Minister Therese Kayikwamba Wagner condemned the Rwandan military incursions as a blatant violation of Congolese sovereignty. Reports indicate that a significant number, between 500 and 1,000, Rwandan soldiers crossed into the DRC on Sunday to assist the M23. The DRC has since called upon the United Nations to impose sanctions on Rwanda, emphasizing the necessity of a strong international response.
Both nations have withdrawn diplomatic personnel as relations deteriorate, particularly after peace talks between Rwandan President Paul Kagame and DRC President Felix Tshisekedi collapsed in December. Amid the unrest, Goma’s civilian population faces dire circumstances, with displacement increasing due to the conflict escalating toward the city. The UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has urged Rwanda to cease its support for the M23 and withdraw military presence from DRC territory.
In addition to the military tensions, the region has seen the tragic deaths of 13 peacekeepers, contributing to the further strain on international peace efforts. The complexity of the situation is compounded by the control over mineral resources within the DRC, which is believed to be a significant factor fueling the conflict. The DRC’s government has called for an embargo on mineral exports associated with Rwanda, particularly gold, as part of its measures to address the ongoing crisis.
The ongoing conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo has deep historical roots, with various armed groups, including the M23, vying for control over lucrative mineral resources. Rwanda’s involvement in the DRC has consistently been a source of tension, with accusations of support for rebel groups aimed at destabilizing the DRC for economic gain. The current violence has been exacerbated by the recent failure of peace talks and the presence of foreign troops, significantly impacting regional security and humanitarian conditions.
The situation in Goma exemplifies the fragile state of peace in the eastern DRC, where military incursions by Rwandan forces and the resurgence of the M23 movement have led to increased violence and instability. The DRC’s response includes a call for international sanctions and an embargo on Rwandan mineral exports. The potential for a wider conflict remains high, necessitating urgent and effective international intervention to address both military and humanitarian needs.
Original Source: www.wyomingnewsnow.tv
