France is intensifying its diplomatic efforts to address the escalating crisis in the eastern DRC, where M23 rebels, allegedly supported by Rwandan troops, are causing significant violence and humanitarian distress. President Macron is engaging with regional leaders, advocating dialogue while calls for international sanctions on Rwanda gain momentum. The situation has resulted in the displacement of hundreds of thousands, highlighting the urgent humanitarian needs in the region.
France is intensifying its diplomatic efforts in response to the escalating crisis in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), where violence between the Congolese army and M23 rebels has resulted in the displacement of hundreds of thousands of people. President Emmanuel Macron is engaging with regional leaders, including Congolese President Félix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame, to promote dialogue and prevent further destabilization. Macron’s office stated, “The President is working tirelessly to avoid further escalation and create conditions for dialogue.”
In light of the deteriorating situation, which has seen heavy fighting and humanitarian challenges in cities such as Goma, France’s Foreign Ministry has expressed profound concern regarding security conditions. Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot condemned the rebel offensive, labeling it a severe threat to regional stability and alerting to its potential humanitarian repercussions. Recently, UN sources reported that over 3,500 Rwandan soldiers have bolstered the M23 forces in their assault on Goma, exacerbating the crisis.
As clashes have intensified, Goma, home to over a million residents and many displaced individuals, has become the epicenter of violence. Reports indicate that hospitals are overwhelmed by injuries, and civilian casualties have mounted, with at least 17 deaths recorded in recent skirmishes. Consequently, more than 700,000 individuals have been displaced from their homes due to the conflict, revealing the dire humanitarian impact of the fighting.
French authorities are calling for international intervention, urging the UN Security Council to impose sanctions on Rwanda in response to its alleged support of the M23 rebels. The DRC government has expressed frustration with the Security Council’s vague statements, accentuating their demand for explicit actions against Rwanda, including a total embargo on Rwandan mineral exports, particularly gold.
In response to the escalating situation, Kenya’s President William Ruto has announced a forthcoming crisis summit involving leaders from the DRC and Rwanda, scheduled under the auspices of the East African Community. Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio reiterated support for Congolese sovereignty and emphasized the importance of recommencing negotiations between the DRC and Rwanda. Despite these diplomatic efforts, tensions remain high, as M23 rebels claim significant advances, recently calling for the surrender of Congolese soldiers.
Rwanda has rejected international calls for military withdrawal, maintaining that its actions are vital for national security in the context of its border. French authorities, including President Macron, have called for immediate collaborative efforts at both the regional and international levels to prevent further deterioration of the crisis and enhance the prospects for peace in the region.
The ongoing conflict in the eastern DRC has deep historical roots, characterized by complex interplays of local, regional, and international politics. Over the past decades, numerous armed groups have battled for control over economic resources, exacerbated by ethnic tensions and cross-border dynamics, particularly involving Rwanda. The resurgence of M23 rebels has heightened these tensions, with accusations of Rwandan support fueling the fire of instability. President Macron’s diplomatic engagements reflect a growing concern about the humanitarian crises and security issues stemming from this conflict, aiming to forge pathways for dialogue and reconciliation.
President Emmanuel Macron is undertaking heightened diplomatic initiatives to address the escalating crisis in eastern DRC, marked by violence and humanitarian distress due to the M23 rebel advances. With substantial displacement and rising casualties, international calls for action, including sanctions against Rwanda, continue to grow. The situation underscores the urgent need for collaborative regional efforts to restore peace and stability in the affected areas.
Original Source: www.rfi.fr
