The Democratic Republic of Congo’s President Félix Tshisekedi has accused Rwanda of violating a peace agreement, just a day after it was signed. In an address to parliament, Tshisekedi stated that Rwandan forces conducted heavy weapons attacks in the eastern DRC, causing significant human and material damage. The attacks occurred in the localities of Kaziba, Katogota, and Lubarika, in South Kivu, and resulted in thousands of people being forced to flee their homes over the weekend.
The US-brokered deal, signed by Tshisekedi and his Rwandan counterpart Paul Kagame in June, aimed to establish a ceasefire in the region. However, the fragile peace has been disrupted by ongoing fighting between Congolese forces and the M23 rebel group, which is backed by Rwanda. The M23 rebels have been accused of receiving support from approximately 4,000 Rwandan troops, according to UN experts.
The conflict in the eastern DRC has been fueled by the presence of dozens of armed groups vying for control of the region’s rich mineral resources. The area has been plagued by violence and instability, with both sides accusing each other of violating the terms of the ceasefire. The recent attacks have escalated tensions, with Tshisekedi’s government calling on Rwanda to respect the terms of the agreement.
The international community has been involved in efforts to broker a peaceful resolution to the conflict, with the US playing a key role in facilitating the June agreement. The situation remains volatile, with the potential for further escalation if the ceasefire is not respected. The humanitarian impact of the conflict is significant, with thousands of civilians displaced and in need of assistance.
The DRC and Rwanda have a complex and often tense relationship, with historical and economic factors contributing to the current conflict. The international community will be watching closely to see how the situation develops, with a focus on supporting efforts to establish a lasting peace in the region. The next steps will be crucial in determining the outcome of the conflict, with the potential for further diplomatic efforts or international intervention if the situation continues to deteriorate.