The United States has called on Rwanda to withdraw its military forces and equipment from the Democratic Republic of Congo, urging an end to support for the M23 rebel group. The request comes amid heightened tensions in the region, where the M23 has been active in the eastern part of the country.
Rwanda has been accused of providing military backing to the M23, a rebel faction that has been fighting the Congolese government since 2012. The US statement highlights concerns over the continued presence of Rwandan troops in the region, which it says destabilizes the area. The M23, which controls parts of North Kivu province, has been linked to Rwanda in past conflicts, though it has denied direct involvement.
The situation has deep roots, with the M23 initially formed as a coalition of armed groups seeking to overthrow the government of President Joseph Kabila. Kabila, who was ousted in 2016, has since been a figure of controversy, facing charges of treason. His alleged alliance with the M23 has raised questions about the group’s motivations and the role of external actors in the conflict.
The US has long expressed concerns over the security situation in the DR Congo, particularly in the eastern regions where armed groups have operated with relative impunity. Rwanda’s involvement has been a point of contention, with some critics arguing that its support fuels instability. The call for troop withdrawal reflects broader efforts to reduce regional tensions and promote peace.
