DR Congo and Rwanda are holding crisis talks as the M23 rebels threaten to seize Goma. Fighting has led to over 100 deaths and almost 1,000 injuries, overwhelming local hospitals. Protests erupted in Kinshasa against foreign embassies for their lack of intervention. Hospitals are strained, and the humanitarian situation is dire as calls for peace intensify amid accusations against Rwanda regarding its involvement.
The leaders of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Rwanda are convening for an emergency summit amid escalating conflict in eastern DRC. President Felix Tshisekedi will meet with Rwandan President Paul Kagame as the M23 rebel group, allegedly supported by Rwandan forces, appears to be on the verge of capturing the city of Goma. Recent clashes have resulted in over 100 fatalities and nearly 1,000 injuries, with the M23 gaining significant ground in the region.
On Tuesday, reports confirmed that M23 had seized Goma’s airport, and there are indications that control of the city is mainly held by M23 and Rwandan troops. Despite Tshisekedi’s pending discussions with Kagame, the extent of Congolese military presence remains uncertain, as surrendering Congolese forces have reportedly been confined to the airport base managed by UN peacekeepers.
This latest offensive by the M23 highlights a troubling escalation in the DRC’s ongoing conflicts, exacerbated by the historical tensions following the 1994 Rwandan genocide. Currently, a humanitarian crisis looms, with the UN estimating that hundreds of thousands have been displaced and many suffering from severe food shortages, inadequate medical facilities, and the potential for disease outbreaks due to compromised health services in Goma.
Protests erupted in Kinshasa, where demonstrators targeted various foreign embassies, expressing outrage over perceived inaction regarding the turmoil in eastern DRC. Protesters targeted the embassies of several nations, including Belgium and the United States, leading to significant unrest, prompting the U.S. embassy to advise its citizens to evacuate the country amid escalating violence.
The International Committee of the Red Cross reported that Goma’s hospitals are overwhelmed with casualties, some patients lying on the floor due to a lack of space. Meanwhile, the humanitarian situation continues to deteriorate, with the spread of Ebola and other diseases posing additional challenges. As fighting persists, the UN warns of a potential resurgence of ethnic conflict and calls for immediate cessation of hostilities.
Rwanda has faced accusations of exploiting DRC’s rich mineral resources during this conflict, complicating relations further. In light of this situation, the African Union has urged the M23 to disarm, although without directly mentioning Rwanda. International figures, including U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, have called for peace and respect for sovereign territorial boundaries while reinforcing concerns over the activities of Rwandan forces in the region.
The Democratic Republic of Congo has experienced significant instability and conflict, particularly in the eastern regions, stemming from territorial disputes and historical tensions linked to the Rwandan genocide. The resurgence of the M23 rebel group, which has received backing reportedly from Rwanda, has led to intense fighting and humanitarian crises, further complicating an already precarious geopolitical situation. With ongoing accusations regarding resource exploitation and external military involvement, regional dynamics remain strained and volatile. The international community is closely monitoring the unfolding events, as the implications extend beyond DRC’s borders.
In summary, the situation in eastern DRC is rapidly deteriorating, with M23 rebels threatening the city of Goma, resulting in significant casualties and humanitarian challenges. President Tshisekedi’s emergency discussions with President Kagame indicate the urgency of addressing the conflict, complicated by public unrest in the DRC’s capital. As the international community watches closely, the need for sustained dialogue and immediate ceasefire calls remains critical to de-escalating tensions and aiding affected populations.
Original Source: www.france24.com
