What You Need to Know
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has vowed to respond to Rwanda’s violation of the peace agreement with the Democratic Republic of Congo. This comes after Rwandan-backed forces advanced in eastern Congo, prompting concerns of a wider conflict. Rubio emphasized the US’s commitment to uphold the agreements brokered by former President Trump.
Africa. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has pledged to respond to Rwanda’s violation of the peace agreement with the Democratic Republic of Congo, which was mediated by former President Donald Trump.
Rubio stated that Kigali has clearly violated the peace agreement with Kinshasa and committed to taking “action” following the advance of Rwandan-backed forces in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, although he did not specify the nature of this action.
In a post on X platform, Rubio wrote, “Rwanda’s actions in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo constitute a clear violation of the agreements signed by President Trump, and the United States will take action to ensure the promises made to the president are upheld.”
Trump has repeatedly stated that the Congo-Rwanda conflict is one of several conflicts he has helped to resolve since taking office in January.
The M23 movement, backed by Rwanda, previously launched a swift attack in eastern Congo, capturing the two largest cities in the region, Goma and Sake, raising fears of a wider war.
The M23 is the most prominent among over 100 armed groups competing for control of mineral-rich eastern Congo and is supported by approximately 4,000 Rwandan soldiers, according to the United Nations.
The fighting has led to the displacement of over 6 million people in the region, with at least 350,000 left homeless after the rebels advanced to Goma.
The conflict between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo has deep roots, stemming from the Rwandan Genocide in 1994 and subsequent regional tensions. Rwanda has been accused of supporting various rebel groups in eastern Congo, leading to a complex web of violence and instability that has displaced millions and drawn international attention.
The M23 rebel group, which has been active in eastern Congo, is one of the most prominent armed factions, reportedly receiving support from Rwanda. The ongoing conflict has not only humanitarian implications but also affects regional security dynamics, as various nations and international organizations seek to mediate and resolve the tensions.
