By Comfort
On Friday, the US Ambassador to the United Nations, Mike Waltz, accused Rwanda of supporting the M23 rebel group and escalating tensions in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
Speaking at a UN Security Council meeting, Waltz said, “Instead of advancing peace, as we recently witnessed under President Trump’s leadership, Rwanda is driving the region toward instability and potential war.”
Earlier this month, leaders from the DRC and Rwanda signed a peace agreement in Washington, encouraged by Trump, sparking hopes for a resolution after more than three decades of conflict.
Waltz highlighted Rwanda’s involvement, stating that the Rwandan Defense Forces have provided M23 with logistical support, military equipment, training, and even direct combat, deploying an estimated 5,000 to 7,000 troops, not including potential reinforcements during the latest offensive.
Rwanda’s military support reportedly includes advanced weaponry such as surface-to-air missiles, drones, and artillery.
The M23 group launched a new offensive in South Kivu province along the Burundian border this month, having captured the key cities of Goma and Bukavu in January and February.
