Violence in eastern DRC: the United States raises its voice against the M23 and Rwanda

In a press release published on the night of Saturday to Sunday, February 18, Washington condemns the rebel group, deemed responsible for the recent escalation of violence in the outskirts of Goma, in the east of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). A new, very strong statement.

Congolese civilians flee the territory of Masisi, on a road near Sake, February 7, 2024. AFP - AUBIN MUKONI

By: RFI Follow

Advertisement

Read more

American diplomacy is unequivocal: “ 

We call on the M23 to immediately cease hostilities

 .” For the United States, the rebels threaten the lives of millions of people, particularly with their incursions into the strategic crossroads of Sake, less than 25 kilometers west of Goma, capital of North Kivu.

The fighting in the area has caused nearly thirty deaths, both military and civilian, since mid-January and these clashes are causing panic. At least 135,000 internally displaced people have had to flee to find a new refuge closer to Goma since the start of the month.

The Rwandan army blamed

Washington also denounces Kigali's support for the M23 and also calls for the withdrawal of the Rwandan army from the DRC.

The United States is demanding, among other things, the dismantling of surface-to-air missiles installed in the Rutshuru territory, north of Goma. The UN accuses Rwandan forces of having fired on a MONUSCO observation drone a little less than two weeks ago. For Washington, these weapons also endanger civilians, humanitarian workers and commercial flights in eastern DRC.

For the moment, Rwanda has not reacted.

Newsletter

Receive all the international news directly in your inbox

I subscribe

Follow all the international news by downloading the RFI application

Share :

Continue reading on the same themes:

  • DRC

  • Rwanda

  • M23

  • UNITED STATES