Rwanda is calling for a ceasefire in eastern Congo and urges the Congolese government to negotiate with the M23 rebels, who have recently taken control of the city of Goma.

Rwanda’s Foreign Minister, Olivier Nduhungirehe, emphasized the importance of dialogue between Congo and the rebels, despite the accusations from the U.N., U.S., France, Britain, and Congo that Rwanda is backing the M23 fighters.

Rwanda, however, denies sending troops into Congo, claiming its military actions have been defensive.

Nduhungirehe stated that with Goma now under rebel control, a ceasefire and negotiations are the only viable solution. The M23 rebels have continued to advance, moving towards the city of Bukavu in South Kivu, further extending their control.

Rwanda’s position is that military solutions have failed and that dialogue is necessary, even though Congo views M23 as a “terrorist group” and refuses direct talks.

According to Reuters, the situation has escalated since peace talks between Congo and Rwanda broke down in December.

Credit : Reuters

https://www.reuters.com/world/africa/rwanda-urges-ceasefire-congo-negotiations-with-rebels-foreign-minister-says-2025-01-29

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