In a televised address on January 29, 2025, President Félix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) announced a “vigorous and coordinated response” to the M23 rebels’ capture of Goma, a strategic city in the eastern part of the country. He labeled the M23 as “terrorists” and criticized the international community for its inaction regarding the escalating security crisis. Tshisekedi urged all Congolese citizens to support the army’s efforts to reclaim the region, emphasizing that the nation would not succumb to “humiliation” and expressing confidence in overcoming the rebel threat.
The M23 rebels, reportedly backed by Rwanda, have seized control of Goma, the capital of North Kivu province, following a rapid military advance. This development has led to significant humanitarian challenges, with over 500,000 people displaced, widespread food shortages, and critical infrastructure in Goma, including electricity and water supplies, severely compromised.
The international community has expressed concern over the situation. The United Nations has condemned the M23’s actions and called for an immediate cessation of hostilities. The UN Secretary-General has urged Rwanda to withdraw its support for the rebels and respect the DRC’s sovereignty. Additionally, countries such as the United States, the European Union, and China have intensified calls for Rwanda to withdraw its forces from the DRC. The UK has put £32 million of bilateral aid under review, and Germany has canceled planned aid talks with Rwanda in response to the violence.
Despite international pressure, the M23 continues to advance, with reports indicating that the group is moving towards Bukavu, the DRC’s second-largest city. The Congolese army has established a defense line, though the rebels have faced little resistance so far. Angola has called for urgent talks between the Congolese and Rwandan leaders, with efforts to resume peace discussions under the East African Community framework.
