The M23 rebel group is advancing in eastern DRC, taking control of significant areas and prompting a UN Security Council resolution calling for Rwanda to stop its support. The violence has led to the displacement of over 50,000 people, with local forces struggling to resist. The situation is compounded by chaos in affected towns and the involvement of Ugandan troops.
On Friday, the M23 rebel group made decisive advancements within the volatile eastern region of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). The UN Security Council issued a rare, unanimous resolution, marking the first call for Rwanda to discontinue its support for M23 amidst rising violence. The resolution condemns Rwanda’s involvement, urging the immediate withdrawal of Rwandan forces from DRC territory.
M23, which reportedly operates with the backing of approximately 4,000 Rwandan soldiers, has captured significant areas, including the provincial capital Bukavu and Goma, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis as thousands flee the ensuing violence. Recent hostilities have forced more than 50,000 Congolese to seek refuge in neighboring countries such as Burundi and Uganda.
Despite the Congolese armed forces’ retreat following Bukavu’s fall, local militias continue to engage in sporadic clashes. Observers have noted a lack of resistance from Congolese soldiers, with only the Wazalendo militia remaining active against M23’s advances. The city of Masisi is currently experiencing nearly daily confrontations between M23 and local forces.
Currently, M23 is advancing towards Uvira, close to the Burundi border. Reports state that fleeing soldiers and civilians continue to move through Uvira amidst chaos, with incidents of prison escapes and armed robberies being reported. Additionally, the humanitarian situation has forced traders to evacuate their goods, with educational institutions shutting down.
As tensions persist, the Ugandan army has deployed troops to assist the Congolese forces. However, the potential interactions between Ugandan forces and M23 raise questions regarding Kampala’s alleged ties with the rebel group. President Yoweri Museveni has publicly denied any intention for Ugandan troops to engage in hostilities against M23, despite the growing crisis.
The recent advances by M23 in the eastern DRC, coupled with the UN’s call for Rwanda to cease its support, underscore the escalating violence and humanitarian crisis in the region. The retreat of Congolese forces combined with the massive displacement of civilians highlights the urgent need for intervention and resolution. Strategic responses from neighboring countries, particularly Uganda, remain uncertain as the situation continues to evolve.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
