Violence Erupts in Goma as Tensions Rise Between DRC and Rwanda

Gunfire erupted in Goma, DRC, as tensions rise between DRC and Rwanda, with accusations of Rwandan troop deployment supporting the M23 rebels. Kenya is facilitating peace talks between both nations. The violence has historical roots and threatens to exacerbate the humanitarian crisis in the region.

Gunfire erupted on Sunday night in Goma, the contested capital of North Kivu province in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). This incident followed accusations by Kinshasa against Rwanda for sending troops to assist the M23 rebel group in capturing the city. Amid increasing international pressure to resolve the conflict, Kenya announced a summit involving DRC President Félix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame in the coming days to discuss the ongoing crisis.

Explosions resonated throughout Goma as fighting intensified between M23 rebels, supported by Rwandan forces, and the Congolese army alongside UN peacekeepers. By midnight, the violence subsided, but uncertainty remained regarding the M23’s advance within the city. The clash reflects the larger, longstanding issues in eastern DRC characterized by ethnic tensions and regional rivalries.

Kinshasa has condemned Rwanda’s military actions, calling them a “declaration of war” for allegedly deploying more troops across the border. The DRC has urged the United Nations to impose sanctions on Rwanda for its backing of M23. As conflict escalates, reports reveal that several foreign peacekeepers have died amid the hostilities, prompting UN chief Antonio Guterres to demand the withdrawal of Rwandan forces, a request Rwanda has dismissed.

In light of the deteriorating relations, both nations have withdrawn their diplomats. The situation worsened following the cancellation of peace talks between the two presidents, coinciding with significant M23 advances. Guterres has called on Rwanda to halt its support for the M23, which has been labeled a vehicle for Rwanda to exploit DRC’s mineral resources.

The ongoing violence has historical roots, with the M23 having temporarily occupied Goma in late 2012. Despite previous military defeats, the group reorganized over the years and has violated multiple ceasefires. Recent regional conflicts have also resulted in the deaths of peacekeepers from various countries, highlighting the escalating violence and instability in the area.

The situation in Goma, DRC, is the result of a protracted conflict instigated by regional tensions and ethnic conflicts. The presence of armed groups such as the M23, reportedly backed by Rwanda, has persisted for decades. The DRC has accused Rwanda of meddling in its internal affairs, while Rwanda cites security concerns along its border. Consequently, diplomatic relations have deteriorated, and calls for international intervention have increased as violence escalates.

In summary, the situation in Goma reflects the ongoing regional instability in eastern DRC, marked by escalating violence and international diplomatic efforts. The recent gunfire and accusations exchanged between DRC and Rwanda highlight the urgent need for dialogue and resolution. As the humanitarian crisis deepens with casualties among peacekeepers, the potential for further conflict looms unless diplomatic measures are effectively undertaken.

Original Source: www.bryantimes.com