Fighting persists in Goma, DRC, as Rwandan-backed M23 rebels claim control. U.N. officials highlight the chaotic nature of the conflict, which has caused civilian casualties and disrupted essential services. Tensions between Congolese troops and Rwandan forces escalate, leading to increased concern over safety in the region.
The ongoing conflict in Goma, the largest city in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, continues to escalate, according to senior United Nations official Bruno Lemarquis. He indicated that fighting remains active throughout the entire city, as M23 rebels, reportedly backed by Rwandan forces, claim control over the area. This situation marks a significant intensification of violence in a conflict that has persisted for over a decade.
The M23 militia has launched assaults across Goma, which has a population exceeding 2 million residents. Congolese troops have engaged in firefights with Rwandan military forces across the border, creating a dangerous and unstable environment. Lemarquis reported active artillery fire in central Goma, indicating that civilian locations, including a maternity hospital, were struck, leading to casualties among innocent civilians, including women and newborns.
Lemarquis has expressed concern regarding the volatile conditions in eastern Congo, wherein U.N. peacekeepers are currently deployed. The situation has prompted the relocation of non-essential staff to Uganda for safety reasons. Following the outbreak of violence, essential services such as internet, telecommunication, and utilities have been severely disrupted throughout Goma, leading to widespread distress among its populace.
U.N. peacekeeping chief Jean-Pierre Lacroix confirmed the presence of Rwandan troops supporting M23 operations, although he mentioned the difficulty in determining their exact number. He labeled the current environment in eastern Congo as “volatile and dangerous,” underscoring the challenges humanitarian teams face amidst the chaos.
The Democratic Republic of Congo has experienced prolonged conflict, particularly in its eastern regions, where armed groups, including the M23 militia, have been active for several years. The M23, specifically, has a history of seeking greater autonomy for the Tutsi ethnic group and has previously occupied Goma, further complicating matters. This ongoing turmoil presents significant challenges for humanitarian efforts and has led to severe displacement and suffering of the local population, prompting international concern and intervention from various peacekeeping forces.
The situation in Goma exemplifies the broader challenges facing the Democratic Republic of Congo as it grapples with persistent violence and instability fueled by armed groups and foreign military involvement. The impact on the civilian population is dire, with reports of casualties and disruptions to basic services. Continued international attention and support are required to address the escalating conflict and its humanitarian consequences.
Original Source: www.usnews.com
