Goma Crisis Worsens as President Tshisekedi Rejects Peace Talks
The Democratic Republic of Congo’s President, Félix Tshisekedi, has refused to participate in regional peace talks aimed at ending the escalating conflict in Goma. This decision comes as fighting intensifies, leaving bodies in the streets and worsening the humanitarian crisis.
Kenyan President William Ruto invited both Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame to a virtual summit to discuss solutions. However, the Congolese government declined the invitation, offering no explanation. Meanwhile, Rwanda faces allegations of backing the M23 rebel group, which has gained control of key areas, including Goma’s airport.
The Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) stated that around 280 Romanian mercenaries fighting for the Congolese army surrendered to M23. Rwanda’s government has confirmed participation in the peace summit, though it remains unclear if President Kagame will attend.
M23 Rebels Strengthen Hold on Goma
Goma remained relatively calm on Wednesday, despite sporadic gunfire. Residents cautiously emerged from hiding to find food, but shortages are worsening due to ongoing violence.
Peacekeepers from the UN and the Southern African Development Community (SADC) remain in the city but have failed to stop the rebel advance. The deputy head of the UN mission, Vivian van de Perre, confirmed that M23 had established control in Goma but faced resistance in some areas.
After discussions with M23, UN forces have started moving around the city to distribute essential supplies. Some UN bases are sheltering thousands of displaced civilians and surrendered Congolese soldiers.
M23 Advances Toward Bukavu
Reports indicate that M23 rebels are advancing towards Bukavu, DR Congo’s second-largest city. Five diplomatic and security sources confirmed the movement, though the BBC has not independently verified these claims.
DR Congo’s state news agency confirmed that President Tshisekedi would not attend the regional summit initiated by President Ruto. The reasons behind his refusal remain undisclosed.
Meanwhile, the captured Romanian mercenaries are reportedly being transported to Kigali, according to Rwanda’s military. The situation raises further concerns about international involvement in the conflict.
Growing Humanitarian Crisis and Ethnic Tensions
UN officials have expressed concerns over rising ethnic tensions due to the conflict. The M23, primarily composed of ethnic Tutsis, claims to be fighting to protect the Tutsi minority in DR Congo.
Rwandan President Kagame, also a Tutsi, accuses DR Congo of harboring Hutu militias responsible for the 1994 Rwandan genocide. This historic animosity continues to fuel conflict in the region.
Hospitals in Goma are overwhelmed with casualties, and essential services such as electricity, water, and internet remain cut off. Aid agencies report widespread looting of food and medical supplies, worsening the humanitarian crisis.
Protests Erupt in Kinshasa Over International Inaction
Frustrated by the lack of international intervention, protesters in DR Congo’s capital, Kinshasa, attacked foreign embassies. At least ten diplomatic missions were damaged as demonstrators called for immediate action to halt the rebel offensive.
Meanwhile, conflicting reports have emerged regarding the Romanian mercenaries. Rwanda claims they surrendered to M23, while a UN peacekeeper stated that they sought refuge at a UN base before being evacuated to Rwanda.
Romanian officials confirmed that the group, consisting of over 250 personnel, was contracted by the Congolese government for military training. Witnesses reported seeing dozens of them undergoing searches by officers after crossing into Rwanda.
Foreign Military Contractors and Regional Tensions
DR Congo has previously hired private military companies to support its fight against M23. The Romanian contractors played a crucial role in defending strategic locations, including Goma’s airport, until the rebels gained the upper hand.
Tensions between DR Congo and Rwanda continue to escalate, with accusations that Rwanda supports M23 to exploit the mineral-rich region. Goma and its surrounding areas contain valuable resources like gold and coltan, essential for mobile phone and electric vehicle production.
As fighting persists, the international community faces mounting pressure to intervene and prevent further destabilization in the region. The future of Goma remains uncertain as diplomatic efforts struggle to find a resolution to the crisis.
