US Accuses Rwanda of Breaching Peace Agreement Amid M23 Rebel Offensive in Eastern Congo

The United States has accused Rwanda of violating a peace agreement by supporting M23 rebels in eastern Congo, resulting in significant civilian casualties and regional instability. US Ambassador Mike Waltz expressed deep concern over the situation and urged Rwanda to adhere to its commitments.

The United States has accused Rwanda of breaching a peace agreement by supporting a new offensive in eastern Congo. This accusation comes amid reports of over 400 civilian deaths due to the M23 rebels' actions in South Kivu, as stated by regional officials. The US Ambassador to the UN, Mike Waltz, expressed deep concern over the situation.

Waltz criticised Rwanda for contributing to instability and potential conflict escalation in the region. He emphasised that the US is prepared to hold accountable those undermining peace efforts. He urged Rwanda to honour its commitments and respect Congo's sovereignty, suggesting that Burundi's forces could assist Congolese troops.

Rwanda's Alleged Involvement

According to Waltz, Rwandan forces have been providing support to M23, including logistics and training. The UN estimates that between 5,000 and 7,000 Rwandan troops are involved in eastern Congo. Despite these claims, Rwanda denies backing M23 but admits to having troops in the area for security reasons.

Rwanda's Ambassador to the UN, Karoli Martin Ngoga, countered by accusing Congo of violating the ceasefire. Ngoga also claimed that Congo supports the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR), which poses a threat to Rwanda's existence.

Impact on Regional Stability

The conflict has displaced about 200,000 people and threatens regional stability. The M23 rebels have captured Uvira, a strategic city in eastern Congo. This capture consolidates their influence across the region and raises fears of a broader conflict spillover into neighbouring countries like Burundi.

Congo's government confirmed M23's control over Uvira, which was its last major stronghold in South Kivu after Bukavu fell earlier this year. The rebels' advance has brought the conflict closer to Burundi, where shells have reportedly landed in Rugombo.

Humanitarian Crisis

The ongoing conflict has resulted in one of the world's most severe humanitarian crises. According to the UN refugee agency, over 7 million people have been displaced due to violence in mineral-rich eastern Congo. Many civilians have fled into Burundi, seeking safety from the escalating violence.

Despite a US-mediated peace deal signed recently by Congolese and Rwandan leaders, tensions remain high. The agreement obliges Rwanda to cease support for armed groups like M23. However, both sides accuse each other of violating previous ceasefire agreements.

The situation remains tense as diplomatic efforts continue to prevent further escalation. The US is engaging with all parties involved to encourage restraint and avoid worsening the conflict.

With inputs from PTI