UN Condemns Rwanda for Supporting Rebel Forces in DRC

The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) has voiced strong condemnation of Rwanda for its support of rebel activities in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). The Council has called on Rwanda to withdraw its forces and cease backing the M23 armed group. This resolution was unanimously adopted on Friday, coinciding with a one-year extension of the UN peacekeeping mission in the DRC, known as MONUSCO. This decision comes amidst Rwanda’s consistent denials of involvement in the escalating conflict, despite substantial evidence to the contrary.

Impact of M23’s Actions

The UNSC has warned that M23’s takeover of Uvira, a strategic city, poses risks of destabilizing the entire region, threatening civilian lives and jeopardizing ongoing peace initiatives. Jennifer Locetta, a U.S. representative to the UN, stated, “M23 must immediately withdraw at least 75 km (47 miles) from Uvira and adhere to its obligations as outlined in the Framework Agreement.”

Recent Developments in Uvira

M23 captured Uvira on December 10, shortly after the presidents of the DRC and Rwanda met with U.S. President Donald Trump to discuss a peace agreement. Trump enthusiastically declared it a momentous occasion for both African nations, even as the violence quickly overshadowed the optimism of that meeting. A local resident, Feza Mariam, expressed her frustrations, stating, “We don’t know anything about the political process they are talking about. The only thing we need is peace.”

International Reactions and Humanitarian Crisis

Following international backlash, M23 claimed it was withdrawing from the city; however, the DRC government dismissed this as a “staged” withdrawal, asserting that M23 forces remain active in the area. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio acknowledged that commitments made in the Washington agreement were not being honored, but noted that new agreements have been established that the U.S. can enforce.

The U.S. has signaled its willingness to take measures against those undermining the peace deal, estimating the presence of between 5,000 and 7,000 Rwandan soldiers in eastern DRC as of early December. The U.S. had previously imposed sanctions on some Rwandan officials earlier in the year, and following the seizure of Uvira, calls for expanding these sanctions have intensified.

Humanitarian Impact

The ongoing violence has triggered a severe humanitarian crisis, with over 84,000 individuals fleeing to Burundi since early December, according to the UN refugee agency. This influx comes on top of approximately 200,000 others who had already sought refuge in the country. Regional officials report that more than 400 civilians have lost their lives amid the recent surge in hostilities.

Ongoing Regional Tensions

The capture of Uvira, strategically located across Lake Tanganyika from Burundi’s largest city, Bujumbura, has raised concerns about a potential escalation of regional conflict. Uvira was one of the last significant positions held by the DRC government and its allied militias in South Kivu, particularly after M23 took over the provincial capital, Bukavu, in February.

Despite various reports from UN experts and international observers, Rwanda continues to deny supporting M23. During a February interview, President Paul Kagame claimed ignorance regarding the presence of Rwandan troops in the DRC, despite his role as commander-in-chief of the armed forces. In February 2024, Rwanda acknowledged its military presence in the region when it rejected a U.S. request to withdraw troops and missile systems, framing its actions as self-defense.

Rwanda cites security threats posed by the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda, a militia comprised mostly of Hutus who fled to the DRC post-genocide as a key reason for its military involvement, accusing the DRC government of harboring this group.

Conclusion

The situation in eastern DRC continues to be catastrophic, impacted by ongoing violence and humanitarian crises. With millions displaced and multiple armed groups vying for control, the path to peace remains fraught with challenges.

Key Takeaways

• The UNSC has condemned Rwanda for its support of the M23 rebel group in the DRC.
• A humanitarian crisis is unfolding with over 84,000 people fleeing into Burundi.
• The M23’s actions threaten regional stability and have drawn international concern.
• Rwanda continues to deny backing M23, despite significant evidence and reports.