The capture of the strategic city of Goma by the M23 armed group—allegedly backed by Rwanda, according to the United States—marks a major escalation in the conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
Amid growing fears of a regional flare-up, Washington has issued strong warnings and threatened sanctions, as the humanitarian toll rises with the deaths of three UN peacekeepers and the displacement of thousands of civilians.
The United States on Tuesday strongly condemned the takeover of Goma, a key city in eastern DRC, by the M23 rebels.
In a phone call with Rwandan President Paul Kagame, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressed deep concern over the escalating violence, calling for an immediate ceasefire and respect for the DRC’s territorial integrity.
Speaking before the UN Security Council in New York, U.S. Ambassador Dorothy Shea urged Rwanda to withdraw its forces from Congolese territory. She also denounced the destruction of diplomatic facilities in Kinshasa and called on the Congolese government to ensure the protection of diplomatic missions and personnel.
The worsening humanitarian crisis has raised alarm, with growing numbers of displaced people in Sake, Goma, and surrounding areas. Shea also voiced concerns over the potential opening of a new front in South Kivu.
Washington is particularly troubled by Rwanda’s reported use of GPS jamming systems and advanced weaponry, which it says endangers UN personnel and civilians. Three peacekeepers have already been killed in recent clashes.
The U.S. government has announced it is considering all available options to hold those fueling the conflict accountable, while also calling for a negotiated resolution that includes regional economic arrangements regarding mineral resources in the Great Lakes region.
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