Despite international calls, fighting between the Democratic Republic of Congo Armed Forces (FARDC) and the M23 continues in the provinces of North Kivu and South Kivu. The humanitarian situation is deteriorating with thousands of displaced people and widespread violence against civilians.
Rwanda is de facto leading the M23’s military operations and illegally exploiting Congolese mineral resources. Kinshasa continues to demand sanctions against Kigali and a firm response from the international community to the ongoing crisis in eastern DRC.
The European Parliament has adopted a resolution condemning Rwanda’s interference in the DRC and calling on Kigali to withdraw its troops. The resolution, voted by a large majority, also calls for the immediate suspension of the MoU (Memorandum of Understanding) between the EU and Rwanda on raw materials. MEPs denounce Kigali’s support for the M23 rebels, who occupy several territories in eastern DRC.
MEPs insisted on the need for the EU to take concrete measures, including freezing budgetary aid to Rwanda and suspending all military cooperation.
The European Commission’s reaction is awaited, while MEPs call for an embargo on minerals from Rwanda and a reassessment of current economic agreements.
France, through its Minister of Foreign Affairs, reiterated its support for the sovereignty of the DRC and condemned the M23 offensives.
