M23 rebels have captured a key airport in Kavumu, advancing toward Bukavu amid international calls for a ceasefire. The escalating conflict has displaced hundreds of thousands, as the Congolese military faces strong resistance. Rwanda’s alleged support for the rebels adds complexity to the crisis, prompting urgent calls for diplomatic intervention at the upcoming African Union summit.
The M23 rebel group has successfully taken control of the airport in Kavumu, a strategic location serving the city of Bukavu in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. This military advancement continues amidst mounting international calls for a ceasefire and renewed peace negotiations. As the conflict escalates, hundreds of thousands of individuals have been forcibly displaced in the preceding weeks due to the ongoing violence.
Last month, the M23, reportedly backed by Rwanda, captured Goma, the principal city in the mineral-rich eastern region of the country. During the recent engagement for the airport, the Congolese military and its allied militia retreated with minimal resistance. Currently, the rebels are positioned approximately 30 kilometers (19 miles) from Bukavu, which serves as the capital of South Kivu province.
Jean Elekano, Deputy Governor of Bukavu, stated that significant clashes have occurred between the national army and M23 forces on the outskirts of the city. Despite these developments, he affirmed that the army is maintaining control and continuing to resist the rebel advance. Residents of Bukavu have expressed rising concerns regarding safety, with local authorities urging the populace to stay indoors for their protection.
As fighting intensifies in the region, the African Union is set to convene a summit in Ethiopia, where discussions surrounding the crisis in eastern DR Congo are anticipated. Moussa Faki Mahamat, Chair of the African Union Commission, emphasized the imperative of respecting a ceasefire. He remarked, “Military campaigns are not going to solve these problems,” highlighting a growing African initiative to address the conflict and enforce peace.
Rwanda is accused of providing support to the M23 rebels, a claim that the Rwandan government denies vehemently while also indicating that its troops are present in eastern DR Congo to ensure national security. President Paul Kagame has argued that Rwanda’s priorities are centered on safeguarding its borders from threats posed by Hutu militias operating within Congo and has dismissed any potential sanctions as a non-issue. Additionally, the Congolese government has charged Rwanda with the illegal annexation of significant territories rich in resources.
The conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo continues to escalate, with M23 rebels making substantial advances toward Bukavu, causing widespread displacement and civilian panic. Despite international appeals for a ceasefire, military actions persist, raising concerns about stability in the region. The involvement of neighboring Rwanda complicates the situation further, as global leaders urge for diplomatic solutions to restore peace.
Original Source: www.bbc.co.uk
