M23 rebels, supported by Rwandan troops, have taken control of Bukavu in eastern DRC. The Congolese army’s inadequate defense led to significant looting, and international authorities are calling for immediate ceasefire and withdrawal of foreign forces. The conflict, driven by accusations of Rwanda’s territorial ambitions, poses risks of a regional war.
On February 16, columns of M23 fighters, allied with Rwandan troops, entered the central district of Bukavu, a major city in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). This occurred shortly after M23 captured the airport located approximately 30 kilometers from the city, marking a significant strategic gain. The city, which is home to one million residents, was left poorly defended by the Congolese armed forces, contributing to the fall of Bukavu and M23’s control over Lake Kivu.
The situation in the Democratic Republic of the Congo continues to grow increasingly precarious as M23 rebels, backed by Rwanda, have captured critical areas, including Bukavu and Goma. International calls for de-escalation and respect for the territorial integrity of the DRC have intensified. The conflict underscores the complex regional dynamics at play, with potential implications for broader regional stability.
Original Source: www.lemonde.fr
