Congo severed ties with Rwanda amid intense fighting by M23 rebels nearing Goma, displacing thousands and resulting in numerous casualties among peacekeepers. The M23 group, linked to Rwanda, has made significant territorial gains, prompting Congo’s diplomatic withdrawal and emergency U.N. meetings. Civilians are fleeing amid fears of violence, and the conflict continues to escalate.
Congo has cut diplomatic relations with Rwanda due to intensified fighting around Goma, which is nearing the capital of North Kivu province. This conflict, primarily led by the M23 rebel group, has resulted in numerous casualties, including at least 13 peacekeepers and foreign military personnel, while forcing thousands of civilians to flee their homes. Goma, a city of about 2 million people, is critical for humanitarian efforts in the region.
The M23, mainly comprised of ethnic Tutsis, has recently gained ground along the border with Rwanda, raising fears about the city’s safety. The Congolese government, alongside the U.S. and U.N. experts, accuses Rwanda of supporting these rebels. Rwanda, facing allegations of its soldiers being in Congo, admits to having troops there for its security but denies backing M23 directly.
In response to the escalating situation, Congo’s foreign ministry announced the immediate severance of ties with Rwanda, while diplomatic staff were withdrawn. The U.N. Security Council convened an emergency meeting after Congo requested it to address the violence, demonstrating the urgency of the crisis.
Fighting intensified near Goma, with reports of heavy gunfire and large civilian displacements as families sought refuge. Displaced individuals like Safi Shangwe expressed fears for their safety, highlighting their desperate conditions. Others like Adèle Shimiye were uncertain about safety in Goma itself, fearing bombings there too.
Civilians attempted to cross into Rwanda to escape the conflict, seeking safety from the ongoing violence. On the frontline, M23 rebels made significant advances, capturing strategic territories like Sake, just 27 kilometers from Goma, raising concerns about the city’s imminent fall.
Congo’s military reported successfully repelling M23 offensives with U.N. and allied assistance, although casualties among peacekeeping forces increased. Among the fallen were soldiers from South Africa and Uruguay, indicating the high stakes involved in aiding Congo against armed factions like M23, especially since peacekeeping efforts have been ongoing for over 20 years.
The conflict in eastern Congo is deeply rooted in historical ethnic tensions and regional power struggles. The M23 rebel group emerged from previous conflicts, claiming to represent the interests of the Congolese Tutsi population. Over recent years, the influx of various armed groups seeking control over the mineral-rich areas has exacerbated the unstable situation, creating one of the largest humanitarian crises globally. The role of neighboring Rwanda compounds the issue, as its involvement in Congolese affairs has historically led to diplomatic tensions and conflict escalation.
The severing of diplomatic ties between Congo and Rwanda marks a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict surrounding Goma, driven by the advancing M23 rebel group. The situation has resulted in tragic losses among peacekeeping forces and UN troops while displacing countless civilians who find their safety increasingly threatened. International and regional diplomatic efforts will be essential in addressing this volatile crisis and ensuring the safety of affected populations.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
