The United Nations Security Council convened for the second time in three days on Tuesday to address the worsening situation in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo.
Reports from UN agencies on the ground indicate chaotic conditions in the regional capital, Goma, as death tolls and displacement figures continue to rise.
On Monday, the M23 rebels, reportedly supported by Rwanda, announced their capture of the city, although the extent of their control remains uncertain.
During the Security Council meeting, Therese Kayikwamba Wagner, the DRC’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, asserted that Rwanda must not be permitted to act without consequences.
“Millions have been displaced. Thousands are trapped in the besieged city of Goma with limited access to food, water, electricity, and security. Countless lives have been lost,” she stated.
Declaring that “enough is enough,” she urged the Council to take decisive action. “We demand five immediate and specific actions. First, the unconditional withdrawal of foreign troops from Congolese territory. A sustainable and peaceful resolution cannot be achieved without this essential step,” she emphasized.
Multiple nations, including the United States, the United Kingdom, and France, have denounced Rwanda for its support of the advancing rebels.
Since the M23 rebels entered Goma on Sunday, thousands of residents have been fleeing the city.
United Nations officials have reported incidents of violence, looting, and corpses in the streets, with hospitals struggling to cope with the influx of casualties. Goma serves as a vital trade and humanitarian center in the region.
As the situation deteriorates, the United States has called on the Council to explore options to stop the offensive.
Democratic Republic of the Congo President Félix Tshisekedi announced that he will not participate in an emergency summit of the East African Community, scheduled to take place in Nairobi, Kenya, on Wednesday.
The M23 rebels are among approximately 100 armed groups competing for control in the conflict-ridden North Kivu province, which includes Goma and is rich in minerals essential for global technology.
Wagner also advocated for sanctions against the Rwandan Defense Force and the suspension of Rwanda’s participation in UN peacekeeping missions.
