The UN Secretary General has demanded Rwanda withdraw troops from eastern DRC as M23 rebels advance towards Goma, displacing thousands. The conflict has resulted in the deaths of at least 13 international soldiers. In light of worsening humanitarian conditions, Guterres condemned the M23 actions and called for an end to hostilities and Rwandan support for the rebels.
The United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres has urged Rwanda to withdraw its troops from the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) as the M23 rebel group advances towards the city of Goma. The conflict has prompted thousands to flee, with aid agencies alarmed by the worsening humanitarian crisis. Reports indicate that at least 13 soldiers from South Africa, Malawi, and Uruguay have lost their lives in the ongoing clashes, which have heightened tensions in the region.
Despite earlier claims by the South African National Defense Force suggesting a successful halt of the M23’s advance, heavy gunfire continued to echo in Goma as civilians fled in panic. International peacekeepers, including members of the UN, are supporting Congolese forces against the rebels, who are reportedly bolstered by Rwandan military backing. The situation continues to deteriorate for the local population as aid organizations warn of severe humanitarian impacts.
M23 rebels, primarily composed of ethnic Tutsis, have resumed offensive actions, capturing areas on the outskirts of Goma and causing mass displacement. The UN has reported over 300,000 individuals have already been displaced due to the renewed hostilities since January 23. The UN’s Special Representative Bintu Keita highlighted the urgent need for humanitarian assistance as the population grapples with escalating violence.
Guterres condemned the M23 group’s aggressive maneuvers and called for an immediate cessation of hostilities. The Secretary General reiterated the importance of Rwanda halting its support for the M23 and withdrawing its forces from DRC territory to de-escalate the situation. The international community remains on high alert as the conflict poses significant threats to regional stability and humanitarian efforts.
The situation in the eastern DRC has been exacerbated by the activities of the M23 rebel group, which has a history of conflict dating back over a decade, primarily involving ethnic Tutsis. Allegations persist regarding Rwanda’s backing of these rebels, leading to strained diplomatic relations and heightened security concerns within the region. This escalation has significantly impacted local civilians and has drawn international attention due to its humanitarian ramifications and implications for peacekeeping operations.
The call for Rwanda to withdraw its forces from DRC amid intensifying conflict signifies the urgent need for international intervention and resolution. As thousands continue to flee and casualties mount among peacekeepers, the situation in the eastern DRC emphasizes the precarious balance between security and humanitarian considerations. Guterres’s appeals reflect a broader commitment to restoring peace and stability in a region strained by continuous conflict.
Original Source: www.dw.com
