The DR Congo has accused Rwanda of military involvement in Goma amid the M23 rebels’ claims of control over the city. This has led to international condemnation and calls for urgent negotiations. The humanitarian situation worsens as violence escalates, impacting millions in the region.
The Congolese government has alleged that the Rwandan army has incursion into Goma, North Kivu province, coinciding with the M23 rebel group’s claim of control over the city. Spokesperson Patrick Muyaya emphasized the presence of Rwandan forces and urged Goma residents to remain indoors to avoid violence.
According to reports, artillery exchanges occurred between Congolese forces and Rwandan troops at the border. Rwandan military representatives mentioned that five civilians were killed near Gisenyi. Meanwhile, the border between Rwanda and Congo was closed as tensions escalated, coinciding with a mass jailbreak in Goma.
The ongoing conflict has drawn international attention, with the UN Security Council condemning the violence and urging external forces to withdraw. Recent clashes resulted in the deaths of international peacekeepers from South Africa, Malawi, and Uruguay, further complicating the situation.
Kenyan President William Ruto indicated that both Rwandan President Paul Kagame and Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi have agreed to attend a crisis summit to facilitate direct negotiations regarding the conflict.
The eastern Congo region, rich in minerals, has long been embroiled in violence involving various armed groups. Although Rwanda denies supporting the M23 militia, it has admitted to deploying troops in the area. The humanitarian impact has been severe, internally displacing over 7 million people due to ongoing hostilities.
The conflict in eastern Congo is deeply rooted, with various armed factions vying for control over the mineral-rich region. The M23, a rebel group primarily composed of members from the ethnic Tutsi community, has proclaimed its influence in the area, provoking accusations against Rwanda for providing military support. These allegations have persisted despite Rwanda’s denials. The complexity of the situation is exacerbated by failed peace talks and the humanitarian crisis affecting millions of displaced individuals.
In summary, accusations against Rwanda regarding military operations in Goma coincide with the rebel group’s assertions of control over the city, sparking regional tensions. With civilian casualties reported and an urgent call for peace negotiations, the international community is closely monitoring the situation. The upcoming summit may provide a platform for dialogue and stability in eastern Congo, though the long-standing conflict presents significant challenges.
Original Source: www.dw.com
