The M23 rebel group has advanced in eastern DRC, seizing key territories and prompting the UN Security Council to call on Rwanda to stop backing them. This conflict has led to significant displacement, with the Congolese military struggling to resist M23’s advances. The situation remains volatile, with thousands fleeing to neighboring countries amid rising chaos.
On Friday, the M23 rebel group made significant territorial gains in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), prompting the UN Security Council to call for Rwanda to stop supporting them. The M23 now controls substantial areas of North Kivu and South Kivu, with an estimated 4,000 Rwandan soldiers backing their advance. The fighting has displaced over 50,000 Congolese citizens to neighboring countries, including Burundi and Uganda.
The UN resolution strongly condemns the M23’s actions and calls for the immediate withdrawal of Rwandan troops from DRC. This marks the first time the Security Council has pointedly addressed Rwanda’s involvement. The resolution demands an immediate ceasefire from all parties, underscoring the urgency of halting bloodshed in the region.
After seizing the provincial capital of Bukavu and the major city of Goma, M23’s rapid progress has led to minimal resistance from the Congolese armed forces. Observers note that the Congolese military has largely retreated, with few soldiers actively engaging in combat. The local militia, Wazalendo, remains one of the few groups still fighting against M23 advances.
M23 is advancing towards Uvira, near Lake Tanganyika, necessitating the flight of thousands of civilians. Reports indicate that 42,000 individuals have crossed into Burundi in the past two weeks. Uvira is currently chaotic, with armed clashes resulting in criminal activity, including the theft of a bishop’s belongings during a robbery.
In northern DRC, M23 is now only nine miles from the strategic town of Lubero. While some Congolese soldiers are fleeing, there are reports of looting among those who remain. The Congolese army has called for its fleeing soldiers to return and refrain from engaging in criminal behavior during their retreat.
After recent incursions, order has partially returned to Lubero with the assistance of Ugandan troops, although tensions remain high, and the reaction of the Ugandan military towards M23 is uncertain. Despite allegations of ties to M23, Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni has publicly denied any intention to engage the rebel fighters.
The situation remains critical in eastern DRC as M23 expands its control with significant support from Rwandan forces. The UN’s call for Rwanda to withdraw signals an international concern regarding escalating regional tensions and humanitarian crises. The Congolese military’s limited capacity to respond effectively raises questions about security and stability in the affected regions, affecting thousands of displaced individuals.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
