France is enhancing its diplomatic initiatives to address the crisis in eastern DRC where M23 rebels, allegedly backed by Rwanda, are advancing. President Macron is urging dialogue among regional leaders while the humanitarian situation deteriorates, with the UN and other international bodies being called for action against Rwanda. As violence escalates, calls for sanctions and intervention increase, amidst growing displacement and casualties.
France is intensifying its diplomatic efforts to tackle the escalating crisis in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), where conflict between the Congolese army and M23 rebels has led to a significant displacement of people. Allegations of Rwandan military support for the rebels add complexity to the situation, which the Rwandan government denies. President Emmanuel Macron has engaged in discussions with regional leaders, including Congolese President Félix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame, advocating for dialogue to avert further instability.
Macron has also spoken recently with leaders from Kenya, South Africa, Congo-Brazzaville, and Angola, expressing the need to preserve the DRC’s sovereignty and promote reconciliation between the warring parties. The Angolan President, João Lourenço, acting as the African Union mediator, has been attempting to facilitate discussions between Tshisekedi and Kagame, although progress remains limited. Macron’s commitment to supporting the mediation process underlines France’s dedication to restoring peace and stability in the region.
The humanitarian crisis in eastern DRC, particularly in Goma, the capital of North Kivu province, continues to worsen. France’s Foreign Minister, Jean-Noël Barrot, condemned the rebel advancement, labeling it a significant threat to regional stability with dire humanitarian repercussions. Recent reports indicate that the M23 rebels, reportedly backed by over 3,500 Rwandan soldiers, have intensified their assault on Goma, resulting in numerous injuries and civilian casualties.
The city of Goma is experiencing a severe humanitarian emergency, with medical facilities overwhelmed due to the influx of victims from the clashes. The South African National Defence Force has reported fatalities among their troops due to rebel attacks, raising concerns over the safety of international forces stationed in the area. This spike in violence underscores the long-standing tensions in eastern DRC, which have been exacerbated by conflicts over valuable mineral resources.
There are increasing calls for international intervention in the conflict. France has supported the DRC’s request to the UN Security Council to impose sanctions against Rwanda. However, dissatisfaction has emerged from the Congolese government regarding perceived inaction from the Security Council, which they criticize for not specifically naming Rwanda as an aggressor. Congolese Foreign Minister Thérèse Kayikwamba Wagner has demanded stricter measures against Rwanda, including an embargo on gold exports.
The escalating conflict in the eastern DRC involves a power struggle between the Congolese government and M23 rebels, who are allegedly receiving support from Rwanda. This situation has resulted in a humanitarian crisis, displacing hundreds of thousands of people. With longstanding issues of regional instability, fueled by competition over natural resources, there is a pressing need for diplomatic solutions and international assistance to restore peace.
The situation in eastern DRC remains critical, with diplomatic efforts led by France aiming to foster dialogue and mitigate the crisis. Despite ongoing discussions among various nations, the humanitarian impact continues to grow, highlighting the necessity for cohesive international action. Continued monitoring and involvement of regional leaders will be crucial in navigating this complex conflict and achieving a peaceful resolution.
Original Source: www.rfi.fr
