DR Congo's President Promises Strong Action Against M23 Rebels as Fighting Escalates

CDCongo, Democratic Republic|

Congolese President Félix Tshisekedi has vowed to launch a "vigorous and coordinated" military response against the Rwanda-backed M23 rebels, who have captured significant territory in the eastern city of Goma and are reportedly advancing southward. In a televised address, he criticized the international community for its inaction amid the escalating security crisis, which has displaced approximately 500,000 people, according to the United Nations. Tshisekedi urged all Congolese citizens to unite in support of the armed forces, asserting, "The Democratic Republic of Congo will not let itself be humiliated or crushed."

As the conflict intensifies, the city of Goma faces severe shortages of water, electricity, and food supplies. Regional leaders, including Rwanda's Paul Kagame and South Africa's Cyril Ramaphosa, recently exchanged sharp words over the conflict, exacerbating tensions. Meanwhile, Angola has called for an urgent meeting between Congolese and Rwandan leaders in Luanda to facilitate peace talks that have previously failed to ease hostilities.

The humanitarian situation continues to worsen as fighting continues between armed groups, with the international community pressed to intervene.

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