Amid growing tensions in the eastern region of the Democratic Republic of Congo, France has called on Rwanda to cease all support for the M23 rebels and withdraw from Congolese territory. Indeed, fighting between the M23, supported by units of the Rwandan army, and Congolese government forces has intensified, particularly around Goma and Saké.
France’s position is clear: attacks on the territorial integrity of the DR Congo, as well as violence against civilian populations, are unacceptable. The French Foreign Ministry strongly condemns the M23 offensives and the presence of Rwandan forces on Congolese territory, urging the rebels to stop fighting immediately.
This situation raises many concerns, particularly with regard to mining issues in the region. DR Congo accuses Rwanda and the M23 of wanting to control the mineral resources of eastern Congo, while the M23 claims to defend a threatened segment of the population. Calls for negotiations have been launched, but Kinshasa refuses to dialogue with “terrorists”.
Faced with this escalation of violence, it is urgent that all stakeholders engage in constructive dialogue to find a peaceful solution to this conflict. It is essential to protect civilian populations and preserve the territorial integrity of DR Congo. The international community must also play a crucial role in seeking a lasting resolution to this conflict.
In the meantime, the situation remains tense in eastern DR Congo, with dramatic humanitarian consequences for local populations. It is imperative that concrete measures are taken to put an end to the violence and enable the stabilization of the region.