UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has issued a dire warning about the ongoing conflict in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, especially in Bukavu, where M23 fighters, allegedly backed by Rwanda, have made substantial advances. He stressed the importance of maintaining the DRC’s territorial integrity and called for regional stability amid rising violence. The European Union is also contemplating actions against Rwanda following M23’s attacks, including a potential suspension of financial and military assistance.
Antonio Guterres, the Secretary-General of the United Nations, has expressed grave concerns regarding the escalating violence in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), particularly in the eastern city of Bukavu, where M23 fighters have launched significant attacks. During his address at an African Union summit in Addis Ababa, he emphasized the necessity of preserving the DRC’s territorial integrity and asserted that “a regional escalation must be avoided at all costs.” Local media reported explosions and casualties in Bukavu amid the continuing conflict.
As the M23 forces, allegedly backed by Rwanda, reportedly gained control over Kavumu airport—a critical strategic point serving Bukavu—Guterres warned that the ongoing hostilities could endanger the entire region. He noted the alarming risks posed to South Kivu as the fighting persists, stating that the situation represented a threat to regional stability. Observations of a growing regional conflagration have prompted criticism towards the African Union for its perceived inaction in response to the violence, with calls for stronger intervention.
M23 commanders confirmed their efforts to secure Bukavu and claimed significant control over both South Kivu and North Kivu provinces, regions rich in mineral resources. Reportedly, the armed forces at Kavumu airport retreated without resistance, evidencing the group’s increasing dominance and control over strategic areas like Lake Kivu, crucial for logistical supply routes.
While Rwanda denies military involvement with M23, allegations persist regarding its support for the group amid ongoing tensions. The outgoing chair of the African Union, Moussa Faki Mahamat, underscored the need for the cessation of hostilities. Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi highlighted the urgency of addressing Rwanda’s actions at the Munich Security Conference, calling for international accountability against Rwanda’s alleged aggressive policies.
In response to the escalating situation, the European Union has declared that it is urgently considering all available options against what it describes as violations of the DRC’s territorial integrity. Anouar el-Anouni, a spokesperson for the European Commission, articulated alarm over the M23 actions in Bukavu and affirmed that such actions will not go unanswered by the international community. Furthermore, a recent resolution by the European Parliament urged the EU to reconsider its financial dealings with Rwanda, advocating for a suspension of budget support and military assistance to the nation.
In conclusion, the worsening conflict in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, particularly involving the M23 forces, poses a significant threat not only to the DRC’s territorial integrity but also to the stability of the entire region. Calls for decisive international actions from the UN, AU, and EU underscore the urgency of addressing these challenges, particularly regarding Rwanda’s alleged involvement in supporting armed insurgents. The need for a ceasefire and peacekeeping measures is paramount to avert further escalation of violence.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
