Kagame and US Secretary of State Discuss Path to Lasting Peace in DR Congo

By The Inspirer.

Rwandan President Paul Kagame engaged in discussions with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Wednesday, January 29, emphasizing the urgency of achieving a ceasefire in eastern DR Congo. The conversation followed the recent capture of Goma by M23 rebels, a development that has intensified the ongoing conflict since late 2021.

Addressing the issue on X, Kagame highlighted their shared commitment to tackling the “root causes of the conflict once and for all.” He also stressed the importance of strengthening diplomatic relations between Rwanda and the United States in a way that respects their mutual interests.

Expressing optimism, Kagame stated his willingness to collaborate with the Trump Administration to promote security and prosperity for the Great Lakes region.

Following a two-day ultimatum issued by the M23 rebels, Goma, a city of roughly two million residents, fell under their control late Sunday. The Congolese military had been given until then to surrender, but the situation escalated as the deadline passed.

Surrendering under pressure, Congolese armed forces handed over their weapons to MONUSCO, the United Nations peacekeeping mission stationed in the region. This act marked a turning point in the power dynamics of the conflict.

Nevertheless, hostilities persisted on Monday when Congolese forces and FDLR militias launched attacks, firing shells into Rwandan territory. The assault resulted in the deaths of nine civilians and left more than 30 others wounded.

Tensions between Rwanda and DR Congo have worsened, with Kinshasa repeatedly accusing Kigali of backing the M23 rebels. Rwanda firmly denies the allegations, citing concerns over the Congolese army’s collaboration with the FDLR, a UN-designated terrorist organization responsible for the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.

Highlighting further security concerns, Rwanda has also pointed to the presence of Burundian troops, European mercenaries, and South Africa-led SADC forces near its border. These developments come amid statements from Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi hinting at regime change strategies targeting Rwanda.

Calling for a diplomatic resolution, Rwanda continues to advocate for peace talks involving M23, while the Congolese government refuses to engage in dialogue, branding the group as a terrorist organization.

Rejecting a potential breakthrough, Kinshasa backtracked in mid-December on a negotiation framework mediated by Angola. The agreement, brokered with the involvement of the foreign ministers of Rwanda and DR Congo, aimed to pave the way for talks with M23 but was ultimately dismissed by the Congolese government.

Escalation has continued since, with M23 expanding its territorial control before ultimately seizing Goma. The city, a crucial hub for international military and humanitarian efforts, remains at the center of the crisis gripping North Kivu province.

Responding to the crisis, leaders of the East African Community (EAC) are preparing to convene an emergency summit to seek solutions for de-escalation and regional stability.