Conflict in Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)

The intensifying conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has raised fears of a potential regional war. Multiple neighboring countries, as well as South Africa, are already militarily involved in the area.

Recent Developments

• M23 fighters have seized the airport near Bukavu, heightening concerns of an imminent assault on the city.
• Local authorities have sent staff home, and shops have closed in response to the threat.
• Heads of state are meeting in Addis Ababa to address the crisis, though Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi is absent, attending the Munich Security Conference instead.

International Reactions and Efforts

• The African Union has called for a ceasefire, emphasizing that military solutions are ineffective.
• International calls for de-escalation have increased, with the United Nations reporting nearly 3,000 fatalities in recent violence.
• Sanctions against Rwanda, accused of backing M23, have been suggested by Kinshasa but not yet implemented.

Humanitarian Concerns

• In Goma, the humanitarian situation is worsening, with limited access to water and a cholera outbreak threatening the population.
• Overcrowded camps are forming due to mass displacements, exacerbated by M23's orders for people to vacate.
• Burundi temporarily closed its borders to escapees, further complicating the humanitarian crisis.

Underlying Tensions

• The DRC accuses Rwanda of seeking control over its natural resources, including rare earth minerals and gold.
• Rwanda denies these claims, citing national security threats from armed groups like the FDLR, linked to the 1994 genocide.
• Diplomatic tensions have risen, with both DRC and Rwanda recalling ambassadors and the DRC closing its airspace to Rwandan aircraft.