M23 Rebels Advance Deeper into Congo Despite Ceasefire Call
Rwanda-backed M23 rebels have pushed further into the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), intensifying hostilities just a day after the presidents of Congo and Rwanda urged an immediate ceasefire. According to residents, the insurgents reached the outskirts of Walikale late Wednesday.
Fierce Fighting Near Walikale
Gunfire erupted in the Nyabangi neighborhood of Walikale, reported resident Janvier Kabutwa. A military source, speaking anonymously, confirmed that Congolese soldiers and pro-government militias were engaging the rebels after M23 launched a surprise attack, overtaking an army position outside the town.
Strategic and Economic Significance
Walikale, a town of approximately 15,000 people, lies in a mineral-rich region containing tin and other valuable resources. This marks the furthest westward advance of M23 in its ongoing campaign. The town is located about 125 km (80 miles) northwest of Goma, eastern Congo’s largest city. It was the rebels seized in January. It is now within 400 km of Kisangani, the country’s fourth-largest city.
The escalating conflict has also disrupted Alphamin Resources’ (AFM.V) operations. It was forced to suspend activities at its Bisie tin mine, situated 60 km northwest of Walikale.
Diplomatic Efforts Amid Escalating Violence
The renewed violence comes amid increased diplomatic efforts to end what is now considered eastern Congo’s most severe conflict. This war has lasted since the 1998-2003 , which involved multiple neighboring countries. On Tuesday, Congolese President Félix Tshisekedi met with Rwandan President Paul Kagame in Qatar their first direct talks since M23 escalated its offensive in January. Along with Qatari officials, the two leaders issued a joint statement calling for an “immediate and unconditional” ceasefire.
Rwanda’s Alleged Involvement
The United Nations has accused Rwanda of supplying arms and troops to M23, a group led by ethnic Tutsi rebels. However, Rwanda has denied these claims, asserting that its military actions are in self-defense against Congo’s army and a militia linked to the perpetrators of the 1994 Rwandan genocide.
M23 Pulls Out of Peace Talks
Hopes for direct negotiations between Congo and M23 were dashed when the rebel group withdrew from scheduled talks in Angola on Tuesday. M23 attributed its decision to recent European Union sanctions against some of its leaders and Rwandan officials, citing the move as an obstacle to constructive dialogue.
A Conflict with Regional Implications
The ongoing conflict in eastern Congo threatens regional stability, with mounting pressure on international stakeholders to broker peace. As fighting intensifies, the humanitarian impact continues to grow, leaving thousands of civilians caught in the crossfire.
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