The M23 militia has advanced in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. The rebels are moving south from Goma, a city of two million residents, and have reportedly captured several locations, including Kalungu and Mukwinja.
Goma, near Rwanda, is largely under the militia’s control. The fighting has displaced hundreds of thousands, with some fleeing inland and others crossing into Rwanda.
Several hundred Romanian mercenaries supporting the Congolese army have been moved to Rwanda. Fighting continues in parts of Goma, where the humanitarian situation is dire, with power outages and food shortages.
Congolese President Tshisekedi vowed strong military retaliation and criticized the international community for insufficient action against the rebels and Rwanda. M23 is primarily composed of Tutsis, claiming to protect Congolese Tutsis.
It is linked to the 1994 Rwandan genocide, where perpetrators, extremist Hutus, fled to eastern Congo, posing a threat to Tutsis. M23 allegedly seeks self-enrichment and resources, with support from Rwanda, including reports of 4,000 Rwandan troops crossing the border and smuggling resources.
The rebels appear to be advancing towards Bukavu, 200 kilometers south of Goma, a strategic location with an airport and abundant resources. M23 previously captured Goma in 2012 but withdrew under international pressure.
The UK Foreign Secretary, Lammy, warned Rwanda of aid cuts if it does not restrain the militia. He highlighted Rwanda’s annual aid exceeding a billion dollars as at risk if it attacks neighbors.
Rwandan President Kagame blamed regional countries for the conflict, citing insufficient resolution efforts. Last month’s Angolan-led peace attempt failed, prompting M23’s offensive.
Angola has urged Congolese and Rwandan leaders to resume dialogue.
Source: NOS