The United States has openly condemned the escalating violence in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), attributing the turmoil to the M23 armed group, which, according to the US, receives backing from Rwanda. In a stern statement issued on February 17, the US State Department called for an immediate end to hostilities, particularly urging the M23 to relinquish control of areas around Sake and Goma.
Highlighting the gravity of the situation, the US criticized Rwanda for its alleged support of the M23 rebels, demanding the immediate withdrawal of Rwandan military personnel and equipment from the DRC. The statement pointed out the presence of surface-to-air missile systems as a significant threat not only to civilians but also to UN peacekeepers, humanitarian workers, and the safety of commercial flights operating in the eastern DRC. Rwanda, however, has consistently denied any involvement with the rebel group.
In its call for peace, the US also encouraged the DRC government to engage in confidence-building measures. This includes halting any cooperation with the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR), an armed group operating within its borders. The region has witnessed a sharp rise in clashes involving the M23, the Congolese army, and various local self-defense groups. These conflicts have led to widespread displacement, with entire communities being forced to leave their homes in search of safety.
In response to the crisis, South Africa announced its commitment to deploying 2,900 troops as part of a southern African regional bloc (SADC) initiative aimed at supporting the DRC’s efforts to combat rebel activities. This move reflects the international community’s growing concern over the stability of the region and the urgent need for a resolution to the conflict.
The US’s condemnation and call for action underscore the complex geopolitical dynamics in the Great Lakes region of Africa. With accusations of foreign support fueling the conflict, the international spotlight is now on Rwanda and the DRC to take decisive steps towards peace and stability. The situation remains tense, with the lives of countless civilians hanging in the balance, underscoring the critical need for diplomatic engagement and a concerted effort to address the root causes of the violence.
