Congo’s forces are battling Rwanda-backed rebels in Goma, raising concerns of escalating violence. The conflict has resulted in civilian casualties and increased pressure on humanitarian resources. As protests erupt in Kinshasa against Rwanda’s involvement, international leaders stress the need for renewed peace talks.
Congo’s security forces engaged in combat against Rwanda-backed rebels who advanced into Goma, a significant eastern city, marking a worrying increase in violence in the region. Residents reported gunfire and explosions, while the rebels claimed control over Goma on Monday. Goma, home to two million people, serves as a pivotal trade and humanitarian center housing numerous displaced individuals from ongoing conflict.
The M23 rebels, one of more than 100 armed groups in eastern Congo, have a history of seizing Goma, last controlling the city in 2012 before being forced out. The current conflict, stemming from longstanding ethnic tensions, has escalated as support for the rebels resumed late last year, attributed to Rwandan influence, though Rwanda denies these claims. The extent of rebel control in Goma remains uncertain, evoking mixed reactions from residents.
Armed clashes have led to fatalities among peacekeepers, with reports of three South African soldiers killed as rebels targeted the airport. These incidents contribute to a rising toll of 17 killed among peacekeepers and foreign soldiers amid the unrest. The humanitarian crisis intensifies, requiring urgent attention, as hundreds of thousands attempt to escape escalating violence.
Bruno Lemarquis, the United Nations humanitarian coordinator for Congo, emphasized the alarming humanitarian situation, revealing active combat zones throughout the city. Serious incidents have occurred, including shelling at hospitals, resulting in civilian casualties. Aid organizations report crippling challenges in reaching displaced populations reliant on humanitarian assistance due to blocked access to key routes in Goma.
Additional countries, including the United States, United Kingdom, and France, condemned Rwanda for supporting the rebel advance. In a meeting, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Congolese President Félix Tshisekedi discussed the imperative to resume peace talks. Growing pressures for a response led to protests in Kinshasa, where demonstrators condemned Rwanda’s involvement, calling for international support against these aggressions.
Opposition leader Martin Fayulu criticized the administration’s handling of the crisis, urging protests against Rwanda. He warned that continued inaction by President Tshisekedi could lead to accountability for national decline. As protests unfold, authorities indicate that the Congolese leader would address the nation regarding the escalating conflict and resultant humanitarian crisis.
The ongoing conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo has deep-rooted historical and ethnic dimensions involving numerous armed groups competing for control of mineral-rich territories. The recent escalation, highlighted by the advances of the M23 rebels, underscores the involvement of external forces, particularly Rwanda. This complicated situation has led to extensive humanitarian challenges, displacing millions and resulting in severe crises for civilians affected by violence and instability.
The situation in Goma illustrates a severe escalation of conflict as Rwanda-backed rebels advance, prompting international condemnation and a worsening humanitarian crisis. The local population faces extreme danger, with civilians caught in active combat zones while aid access remains critically constrained. The Congolese government faces mounting pressure to address the conflict, and the international community is urged to support peace efforts to stabilize the region. Protests indicate rising public frustration and demand for decisive actions against foreign involvement in the ongoing crisis.
Original Source: www.local10.com
