UN chief calls for Rwandan forces to leave DRC as rebels press offensive
Al JazeeraJAN 25
M23 Rebels Seize Goma as DRC-Rwanda Tensions Escalate
Above: A child observes their neighbors evacuating from Kibati due to escalating warfare on Jan. 26, 2025. Image copyright: Jospin Mwhisha/Contributor/AFP via Getty Images
The Facts
Rwanda-backed rebels, the M23, announced on Sunday that they had taken control of Goma, the largest city in eastern Congo. The United Nations described the situation as critical, with widespread panic affecting its 2M residents.
The ongoing escalation of the conflict has led to significant casualties, including the deaths of thirteen peacekeepers — nine South Africans, three Malawians, and one Uruguayan, who were killed in clashes with rebels during recent fighting. On Sunday, the rebels urged the Congolese army to surrender their weapons.
The Democratic Republic of Congo has formally severed diplomatic ties with Rwanda, recalling its diplomats and requesting Rwandan authorities to cease diplomatic activities in Kinshasa, following accusations that Rwanda is supporting the M23 rebels' offensive in the mineral-rich region.
The Spin
Narrative A
The Congolese government faces an existential threat from Rwanda-backed M23 rebels who have violated territorial sovereignty and caused massive humanitarian displacement. Rwanda's military presence in eastern Congo represents a clear act of aggression that has destabilized the region and led to massive civilian casualties.
Narrative B
Rwanda's security concerns are legitimate due to the presence of FDLR militia (former Rwandan Hutu officers) near its border, and the Congolese military's collaboration with these groups poses a direct threat. The conflict stems from long-standing discrimination against Tutsi minorities in eastern Congo that require protection.