Washington – The United States has sharply criticized Rwanda, accusing the nation of exacerbating instability and dragging the region towards further conflict. The condemnation comes amidst escalating violence in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), following attacks attributed to the M23 rebel group.
During a recent United Nations Security Council meeting, the US Ambassador to the UN, stated that Rwanda’s actions are undermining recent peace efforts. “Instead of moving towards peace, as we’ve seen in recent weeks, Rwanda is dragging the region into greater instability and conflict,” he asserted.
According to the US representative, Rwanda has deployed a significant number of surface-to-air missiles and other advanced heavy weaponry in North and South Kivu, allegedly to support the M23 rebels. “We have credible information regarding the increased use of suicide drones and artillery by M23 and Rwanda, including strikes within Burundi,” the ambassador added.
The US accusations follow the M23’s recent capture of key strategic locations in the DRC, including the town of Uvira in South Kivu. Uvira, a town of approximately 700,000 residents, holds strategic importance due to its location on the shores of Lake Tanganyika and its position on the border route with Burundi.
The United Nations has also expressed grave concern over the escalating situation. A top UN peacekeeping official warned that the recent offensive raises the specter of a regional explosion with incalculable consequences. He cautioned that the direct or indirect involvement of armed groups from neighboring countries, coupled with cross-border movements of displaced persons and fighters, significantly increases the risk of a broader regional conflict and the gradual fragmentation of the DRC.
DZWatch continues to monitor the situation closely.
