Rwandan troops are reportedly invading the DRC to support M23 rebels aiming to seize Goma ahead of an emergency UN meeting. Skirmishes are escalating, with Goma’s defenses under pressure. Analysts criticize the West’s response and Rwandan support for M23, emphasizing the critical humanitarian situation in Goma.
Intelligence officials have reported a substantial influx of Rwandan troops crossing into the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) to support rebel forces aiming to capture Goma. The Rwandan Defence Force (RDF) is suspected of conducting a covert operation alongside the M23 militia, leading to escalating tensions on the borders as skirmishes between M23 units and the Congolese army intensify. Senior commanders from the RDF are reportedly positioned in Gisenyi, just a mile from Goma, preparing for an offensive.
Fighting has been reported on the outskirts of Goma, resulting in casualties, including three South African peacekeepers. The frontline is approaching Goma as fierce confrontations unfold, with reports indicating that the M23 forces have advanced nearly to the city limits. Despite resistance, sources indicate that the M23’s attempt to seize Goma may be imminent, as they aim to take control before an emergency UN Security Council meeting scheduled for Monday.
The UN Security Council is expected to discuss the crisis amidst fears that Rwanda intends to establish dominance in Goma before international intervention can occur. The city has significant strategic importance, and historians recall the rapid withdrawal of M23 forces from Goma in 2012 due to external pressure. Intelligence suggests that Rwanda’s goal is to quickly secure Goma and move forward with plans to capture Bukavu,
a city further south on the Lake Kivu border.
The M23 insurgency has surged this year, evidenced by the group’s recent victories, including the capture of key towns like Minova and Sake, which jeopardize Goma’s supply lines. Human Rights Watch has raised alarms about the dire situation, citing ongoing violence and critical shortages of water and power affecting civilians within Goma, emphasizing the urgent need for humanitarian aid access and civilian protection.
Analysts criticize Western nations for their inadequate response to Rwanda’s aggressive maneuvers, particularly towards President Paul Kagame. Critics suggest that the close relationships maintained by countries such as the UK, US, and France with Rwanda impede effective action against its military actions in the DRC. The European Union has issued a statement calling for Rwanda to cease its support for the M23 forces and withdraw its troops from the DRC.
The ongoing conflict in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, particularly in the eastern regions rich in minerals, has a long history involving multiple rebel groups, including M23, which has historically received backing from neighboring Rwanda. Tensions between Rwanda and the DRC have escalated as rebels gain ground, threatening international peace and raising humanitarian concerns. The UN Security Council’s role is crucial in mediating the conflict, hence their emergency meetings addressing the situation are critical to understanding the evolving dynamics of the crisis.
In summary, the situation in the DRC is particularly precarious as Rwandan forces appear poised to intervene in support of M23 rebels attempting to capture the city of Goma amid ongoing clashes with the Congolese army. As the international community prepares to address these developments through the UN Security Council, the urgency for humanitarian intervention and the protection of civilians becomes increasingly paramount. Continued scrutiny of international relationships with Rwanda will be essential to effectively counter the escalating conflict.
Original Source: www.theguardian.com
