The UN Secretary-General urged Rwanda to withdraw troops amid advancing M23 rebels in eastern DRC. Fighting has displaced thousands and resulted in the deaths of international soldiers. The humanitarian crisis escalates as calls for ceasefire and support withdrawal intensify.
In response to escalating violence in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has urged Rwanda to withdraw its troops and cease support for the M23 rebels. The M23 group, advancing toward Goma, has caused thousands of civilians to flee, exacerbating an already dire humanitarian crisis in the region.
Reports indicate that the M23 rebels are making significant strides toward the mineral-rich city of Goma, contradicting prior assertions from the South African National Defense Force that they had been halted. Heavy gunfire has been reported, and civilians, including many children, are fleeing in panic as fighting intensifies.
UN peacekeepers are actively engaged in combat alongside Congolese government forces. Tragically, at least thirteen soldiers from South Africa, Malawi, and Uruguay have lost their lives in this ongoing conflict, highlighting the perilous situation faced by both military personnel and civilians caught in the violence.
The UN Special Representative for Congo reported a severe humanitarian impact, noting that entire communities have been displaced. The situation worsens as the M23 and supporting Rwandan forces encroach upon Goma, resulting in mass evacuations and heightened fear among local residents.
Secretary-General Guterres expressed profound concern over the situation, condemning the M23’s offensive and its advance toward Goma. He has called for an immediate halt to hostilities and urged the Rwandan Defense Forces to withdraw support for the M23 militants, emphasizing the need for stability in the region.
The ongoing conflict in eastern DRC is rooted in complex ethnic tensions. The M23 rebels, primarily ethnic Tutsis, emerged from a schism in the Congolese army over a decade ago. Accusations of Rwandan support for this group have persisted, further complicating regional tensions.
The current conflict in the DRC, particularly in its eastern regions, has deep historical roots involving ethnic disputes and armed groups struggling for control. The M23 rebel group, which primarily comprises ethnic Tutsis, has been accused of receiving support from Rwanda, adding layers of international complexity to the humanitarian and military crisis. As these tensions escalate, the plight of civilians grows increasingly dire.
In summary, the situation in eastern DRC remains precarious as M23 rebels approach Goma, prompting significant civilian displacement and international concern. The UN Secretary-General has called for urgent action from Rwanda to withdraw its support of the rebels, signaling the need for measures to protect civilians and stabilize the region. The tragic losses among peacekeeping forces further underscore the necessity of a peaceful resolution to avert a deepening humanitarian disaster.
Original Source: www.dw.com
