International news: Antony Blinken in discussion with Paul Kagame and Félix Tshisekedi on the tense situation between Rwanda and the DRC
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken recently held separate talks with Rwandan President Paul Kagame and Congolese head of state Félix Tshisekedi. Discussions focused on the volatile situation on the border between the two countries and the worsening humanitarian crisis in the region. Fighting has intensified in recent months in North Kivu between the Congolese army and the M23, a rebellion supported by Rwanda according to several UN reports.
In a statement from the US State Department, Antony Blinken called for a diplomatic solution to resolve tensions between Rwanda and the DRC. Relations between Kinshasa and Kigali have been tense for a long time, but they were exacerbated with the renewed strength of the M23 two years ago. This rebellion is supported, according to UN reports, by neighboring Rwanda.
Fighting between the M23 and the Congolese army has intensified in recent months in the Goma region, eastern DRC. Indeed, a year ago, the M23 arrived at the gates of the capital of North Kivu, causing thousands of Congolese to flee.
Faced with this situation, the United States called on both countries. Antony Blinken urged each side to take steps to de-escalate the situation, including withdrawing their troops from the border.
It should be noted that Washington has hardened its stance towards Kigali in recent months. The United States has called on Rwanda, its former ally, to stop supporting the M23. UN reports have clearly established Rwanda’s material and human support for the rebellion. As a result, the United States restricted its military aid and sales of arms and equipment to Rwanda. In addition, Rwanda has been placed on the blacklist of countries suspected of recruiting or using child soldiers.
This firmer position taken by the United States is explained by the fear of a regionalization of the conflict and the humanitarian crisis. The situation in eastern DRC is worrying and requires concerted diplomatic action to find a peaceful solution and save lives.
It is essential that Rwandan and Congolese leaders take immediate steps to defuse tensions and work together to resolve the issues fueling this conflict. Peace and stability in the region are essential to ensure the well-being of populations and promote economic development.
The dialogue initiated by Antony Blinken with Paul Kagame and Félix Tshisekedi is a step in the right direction, but there is still work to be done. International pressure must be maintained for the two countries to find a lasting solution to this crisis which affects millions of people.