The DRC has called for U.N. sanctions against Rwanda, accusing it of a “declaration of war” by sending troops to support the M23 militia advancing toward Goma. The situation has escalated, leading to calls for a ceasefire and condemnation from the international community. Heavy fighting and the deaths of peacekeepers have prompted urgent diplomatic efforts to address the conflict, impacting the lives of millions in the region.
The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has urged the United Nations to impose sanctions on Rwanda, asserting that the latter has committed a “declaration of war” by sending additional troops across the border. This escalation is characterized by Rwandan forces joining the Rwandan-backed M23 militia, which is advancing toward Goma, the capital of North Kivu province. The M23’s military maneuvers have been conducted against the backdrop of ongoing clashes that have resulted in the deaths of foreign peacekeepers. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has demanded that Rwanda withdraw its forces from the DRC.
During an emergency UN Security Council meeting, Congolese Foreign Minister Therese Kayikwamba Wagner denounced the presence of Rwandan troops as a breach of DRC sovereignty, describing it as a blatant declaration of war. According to UN sources, estimates suggest that between 500 to 1,000 Rwandan soldiers were reinforced near Goma, exacerbating an already tense situation where both nations have expelled their diplomats amidst escalating hostilities. Heavy explosions were reported in Goma, leading to widespread displacement as residents sought safety.
The international community, including the African Union and the United States, has called for an immediate ceasefire. Secretary-General Guterres urged Rwanda to stop supporting the M23 and called for an immediate cessation of hostilities from the M23 forces. The ongoing conflict has raised concerns regarding Rwanda’s intentions in the region, with accusations that Kigali seeks to exploit the DRC’s mineral resources by backing the M23.
The DRC has recommended a total embargo on the export of minerals labeled as Rwandan, notably gold, to counteract Rwanda’s interference in its territory. Following the breakdown of peace talks last December, the situation has deteriorated further. Goma faced turmoil and disruption, reminiscent of the M23’s earlier occupation of the city in 2012, which had ended following a settlement but saw the group regroup later and break past ceasefire agreements.
The eastern DRC has been plagued by violence for decades owing to conflicts between various armed groups and militias. The presence of approximately 15,000 peacekeepers from the United Nations Mission in the DRC (MONUSCO) underscores the fragility of the region. Tragically, recent conflicts have claimed the lives of several peacekeepers, prompting the UN to evacuate non-essential personnel from Goma to neighboring Uganda and Kinshasa further to ensure their safety.
Recent tensions between the DRC and Rwanda highlight the ongoing conflict in the eastern regions of the DRC, characterized by the presence of rival militias and foreign interventions. The M23 movement has long been a source of instability, and Rwanda’s involvement, often dismissed in past UN resolutions, continues to draw international scrutiny. Diplomatic efforts have stalled amidst rising violence, leading to urgent appeals from the DRC for sanctions against Rwanda.
In conclusion, the DRC’s urgent call for U.N. intervention reflects a critical moment in its ongoing struggle against foreign military involvement and internal armed conflicts. With Rwanda’s troop presence escalating tensions, the international community must act to facilitate peace and stability in the region. The dire situation in Goma illustrates the urgent need for diplomatic resolution and accountability for all parties involved in this complex crisis.
Original Source: www.wyomingnewsnow.tv
