Rwandan President Kagame has defended his country’s military support for M23 rebels in eastern Congo following the capture of Goma. International backlash has grown, with nations like the U.S. and Germany expressing dismay, while neighboring countries are cautious amid escalating tensions. Kagame’s comments during an EAC summit and his rebuke of South Africa’s stance show the deepening complexities in the region’s longstanding conflict.
Rwandan President Paul Kagame vehemently defended his nation’s actions in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, where M23 rebels, supported by Rwandan military forces, have captured Goma and are advancing towards Bukavu. Kagame emphasized that Rwanda is ready for “confrontation” if required, amid increasing international criticism of Rwanda’s involvement in the long-standing conflict. The rapid escalation has strained relations with the United States, Germany, Britain, and other African nations, which have called for an immediate ceasefire.
The M23’s recent offensive marks the most significant escalation of tension in the area since 2012, with the possibility of rekindling wider conflict involving multiple countries. Neighboring Burundi, which has adversarial relations with Rwanda, supports Congolese troops, highlighting regional instability. Kagame expressed discontent at the lack of diplomatic resolutions to the clashes between Congolese forces and the M23, arguing that the failure to act was evident in the recent developments.
Kagame’s comments were made during an emergency summit of the East African Community, where he rebuked other nations for ineffective efforts to mediate in the conflict. Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi did not participate in the summit and instead announced a military strategy to reclaim lost territory. Kagame criticized South African President Cyril Ramaphosa’s stance on the conflict and accused South Africa of supporting militias in Congo that are linked to the genocide perpetrators.
Following the capture of Goma, M23 troops have begun operating southwards towards Bukavu, facing resistance from Congolese forces, especially in the area around Nyabibwe. M23 has emerged as a significant force in the conflict, continuing a pattern of insurgencies involving ethnic Tutsi factions historically supported by Rwanda. Rwanda contends that it faces threats from remnants of genocidal factions residing in Congo, which it claims endangers Rwandan Tutsis and national security. However, Congo refutes these assertions, accusing Rwanda of exploiting instability to seize its resources.
The ongoing conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo has deep historical roots, stemming from the Rwandan genocide in 1994 that led to the rise of Tutsi leadership under Kagame in Rwanda. For decades, Rwanda has intervened in Congolese affairs, often supporting various rebel factions to stabilize its borders against perceived threats from Hutu militias. The M23 movement, a key actor in the recent hostilities, has capitalized on these tensions, magnifying fears of renewed widespread conflict in the region. The situation has garnered international attention due to its implications for regional security and humanitarian conditions.
In conclusion, President Kagame’s defiance amidst growing international criticism highlights the complexities of Rwanda’s involvement in eastern Congo. The resurgence of the M23 rebellion, coupled with regional dynamics featuring Burundi and South Africa’s roles, risks a broader conflict that could destabilize an already volatile region. International responses remain critical as the situation evolves, with calls for negotiation and ceasefire becoming increasingly urgent.
Original Source: www.usnews.com