DR Congo President Felix Tshisekedi announced a “vigorous” military response to the advancing M23 rebels backed by Rwanda, amid an escalating security crisis in the eastern region. M23’s recent advances threaten to worsen the humanitarian situation, prompting urgent calls for international intervention. Tshisekedi criticized the international community for inaction while local populations face dire living conditions and shortages of essential supplies.
President Felix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) stated that the failure of the international community to address the escalating security crisis in the eastern DRC is unacceptable. In response to the advances of the Rwanda-backed M23 rebels, Tshisekedi emphasized that Congolese forces are mounting a robust military response. Recent developments have seen M23 seize control of significant territories, including much of Goma, necessitating urgent crisis discussions and raising alarms of a humanitarian disaster.
As M23 rebels progress in eastern DRC, Tshisekedi assured the nation of a coordinated offensive against these “terrorists” and their supporters. His condemnation of the international community’s inaction was evident in his remarks, declaring it an affront to the DRC. Tshisekedi expressed concern that the advances of these fighters could escalate tensions across the broader region, emphasizing the urgent need for international support.
The situation remains dire; reports state that M23 has captured key locations in South Kivu without encountering significant resistance from Congolese forces. The recent clashes have resulted in over 100 fatalities and nearly 1,000 injuries, creating a severe humanitarian crisis marked by food and water shortages. Amidst this chaos, residents of Goma have begun to cautiously reemerge, expressing their grievances about the dire living conditions.
International calls for peaceful negotiations continue, yet Tshisekedi declined to meet with Rwandan President Paul Kagame amid the escalating conflict. The East African Community has urged DRC to engage in discussions with all concerned parties, including M23, to address the ongoing strife in the region. Angola has proposed urgent talks between Congolese and Rwandan leaders following the M23 offensive, reflecting the urgent requirement for diplomatic interventions.
As M23 rebels take control of additional areas, including parts of downtown Goma, reports indicate widespread looting and unrest. The once-thriving city is now largely under the control of M23 and Rwandan troops. Local civilians articulate feelings of isolation due to power outages and severe shortages of essential supplies as they grapple with the aftermath of conflict. Despite calls from multiple nations urging Rwanda to withdraw its forces, the M23 advance shows no signs of abating, with warnings that it could potentially spread further into the DRC.
The Democratic Republic of Congo is experiencing a profound security crisis, primarily attributed to the activities of the M23 armed group, which has connections to Rwanda. The conflict has its roots in historical grievances, particularly stemming from the aftermath of the Rwandan genocide in 1994. The eastern DRC is rich in natural resources, which has made it a target for various armed factions over the decades, perpetuating cycles of violence. The resurgence of M23 has exacerbated an already precarious humanitarian situation in the region, leading to mass displacement and a looming crisis in basic needs such as food and water. The international community’s response—or lack thereof—has been criticized by DRC’s leadership, which is seeking both military and diplomatic support to stabilize the situation. This evolving scenario reflects broader geopolitical tensions involving neighboring nations and their interests in the resource-rich area.
In summary, President Tshisekedi’s declaration of a vigorous military response against the advancing M23 rebels reflects the gravity of the security situation in eastern DRC. Despite ongoing international appeals for dialogue and intervention, the humanitarian crisis is worsening, with millions affected by the conflict. The international community’s inaction has drawn sharp criticism, and the potential for further escalation looms large if collaborative efforts are not undertaken promptly to restore peace and stability.
Original Source: www.france24.com