Tensions Rise, The United States has accused Rwanda of supporting the M23 rebel group operating in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The U.S. State Department issued a statement condemning the escalating tensions and urging the M23 to cease hostilities and withdraw alleged from its current positions around Sake and Goma. The statement also called on Rwanda to withdraw all its military personnel from the DRC and remove surface-to-air missile systems.
In response, Rwanda has pushed back against the U.S. allegation, stating that the statement distorts reality. Rwanda’s foreign affairs ministry emphasized its right to self-defense against what it perceives as threats to Rwandan security posed by the DRC’s actions in the area.
The situation in eastern DRC has witnessed a surge in violence in recent weeks, with clashes involving M23 rebels, government forces, and self-defense groups supporting the rebels. The conflict has led to the displacement of hundreds of thousands of people, many of whom have sought refuge in Goma as the M23 advances on the city.
Amidst this escalation, South Africa announced its decision to send a contingent of 2,900 troops as part of its contribution to a force deployed by the Southern African Development Community (SADC) to assist Congo in combating rebel groups. The international community is closely monitoring the developments in the region, as concerns grow over the humanitarian impact and the potential for further conflict.
