Thirteen Peacekeepers Killed in DR Congo Clash with M23 Rebels

Thirteen peacekeepers lost their lives in clashes with M23 rebels in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo). Nine South African soldiers were killed while defending the city of Goma in eastern DR Congo. Three Malawian soldiers and one Uruguayan also died in the fighting.

Global Calls for Peace

French President Emmanuel Macron spoke with the leaders of DR Congo and Rwanda, urging them to end the violence. The United Nations, concerned about the escalating situation, evacuated all non-essential staff from Goma. Due to the growing conflict, the UN Security Council moved its meeting to Sunday.

M23 Rebels Demand Surrender

The M23 rebels have called on Congolese troops in Goma to surrender in order to prevent further bloodshed. In response, DR Congo severed diplomatic ties with Rwanda, accusing it of supporting the rebellion. This tension followed the M23’s killing of a Congolese military governor and their capture of key towns in the east.

International Condemnation of M23 and Rwanda

Macron continued to push for an end to the fighting during separate calls with both DR Congo and Rwanda. The EU’s foreign policy chief, Kaja Kallas, condemned Rwanda’s support for M23. Angolan President Joao Lourenco also called for an immediate ceasefire to preserve civilian lives.

Humanitarian Crisis Worsens

The ongoing conflict has displaced over 400,000 people, with more than 200 civilians killed in areas controlled by M23. Hospitals in Goma are overwhelmed with patients, many injured in the violence. Local leaders and Bishop Martin Gordon have called for an end to the fighting, stating that people are desperate for peace.

International Evacuations and Warnings

Countries such as the UK, France, Germany, and the US have urged their citizens to leave Goma. Meanwhile, Human Rights Watch has warned of escalating risks to civilians. Both M23 and the Congolese army are accused of committing serious abuses against the civilian population.

M23 and Rwanda’s Role in the Conflict

The M23 has controlled parts of mineral-rich eastern DR Congo since 2021, worsening the humanitarian situation. DR Congo and the UN accuse Rwanda of backing the rebels, though Rwanda has not confirmed this. Rwanda claims that DR Congo works with individuals responsible for the 1994 Rwandan genocide.

Origins of M23 and Rwanda’s Alleged Exploitation

The M23 was initially formed in 2012 to protect the Tutsi population in eastern DR Congo. However, critics argue that Rwanda uses the group to exploit the region’s valuable minerals, such as gold, cobalt, and tantalum.