President Felix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has pledged a \"vigorous and coordinated response\" to the advancing Rwanda-backed M23 fighters in the country's eastern region. In a televised address, Tshisekedi condemned the international community's \"silence and inaction\" amidst the escalating conflict, which has led to over 100 deaths and nearly 1,000 injuries in recent clashes.
The M23 armed group has seized significant areas, including the strategic city of Goma, a key mineral trading hub. The ongoing conflict threatens to deepen the humanitarian crisis, causing food and water shortages and displacing half a million people this month alone, according to United Nations reports.
Despite calls for crisis talks, Tshisekedi refused to engage with Rwandan President Paul Kagame, emphasizing the need for action over dialogue. The regional East African Community has urged for a peaceful settlement, while Rwanda's ambassador maintains that the M23's advance will continue.
Goma residents are cautiously stepping out as tensions ease slightly, but the presence of M23 fighters and ongoing looting highlight the fragile security situation. The DRC's rich mineral resources, including gold, cobalt, and tin, remain a focal point of the conflict, with accusations that Rwanda seeks to exploit these resources, a claim Rwanda has denied.
As the DRC faces this renewed offensive, the international community's response will be crucial in determining the region's stability and the humanitarian situation on the ground.
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DR Congo leader says troops mounting 'vigorous' response to M23
cgtn.com
