Rebels supported by Rwanda, who have recently seized control of Goma, the largest city in eastern Congo, announced on Thursday their intent to march toward the capital, Kinshasa. In response, President Félix Tshisekedi called for a mass mobilization of military forces to resist the insurgency, while Congo’s Defense Minister firmly rejected any prospects for negotiations with the M23 rebel group.
Defense Minister Guy Kabombo Muadiamvita, in a video statement, underscored the government’s stance against dialogue. “We will stay here in Congo and fight. If we do not stay alive here, let’s stay dead here,” he asserted, signaling the government’s commitment to a military solution.
While the M23 rebels, who currently control Goma and neighboring areas, indicated willingness to engage in talks – a position supported by the East African regional bloc – their political leader, Corneille Nangaa, clarified their ultimate aim was to seize power. “We want to go to Kinshasa, take power, and lead the country,” Nangaa stated, though he did not reveal specifics on how they plan to reach the capital, over 1,500 kilometers away.
Rwanda’s President Paul Kagame confirmed discussions with Angola’s President Joao Lourenco, a mediator in the conflict, stating that both leaders are committed to working with other African nations to bring an end to the fighting. U.S. President Donald Trump has described the conflict as a “serious problem,” but has refrained from further comment. Meanwhile, the United Nations expressed concern over reports of Rwandan forces crossing into Congo to support the rebels.
According to U.N. experts, M23 rebels are bolstered by around 4,000 Rwandan troops, a significantly larger force than in 2012 when they first captured Goma. These rebels are among over 100 armed groups fighting for control of the mineral-rich eastern regions of Congo, whose resources are critical to global technology industries, valued at an estimated $24 trillion.
President Tshisekedi has called on young people to join the military in defense of the nation, while regional leaders have called for an immediate ceasefire and for the Congolese government to engage in dialogue with the rebels. Tshisekedi, however, pledged to mount a robust military response while maintaining his commitment to seeking a peaceful resolution to the crisis.
In Goma, the situation remains dire, with basic services severely disrupted and widespread looting. The U.N. Humanitarian Coordinator reported a worsening humanitarian situation, as many displaced residents rely on Goma for aid. Footage from the city showed residents scavenging food and goods from abandoned stores, heightening concerns over a cycle of violence.
The M23 rebels have now set their sights on South Kivu’s provincial capital, Bukavu, with escalating fears among residents of the advancing conflict. The Congolese military has been weakened by the withdrawal of foreign contractors, and soldiers have either defected to the rebels or sought refuge in neighboring Rwanda.
As tensions rise, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa condemned Rwanda’s role in the conflict, accusing the Rwanda Defense Force militia of fueling the violence, which has led to the deaths of 13 South African peacekeepers. In response, Kagame criticized South African peacekeepers as “belligerent” forces, warning that Rwanda would confront any military action.
Regional and international calls for an immediate ceasefire continue, with analysts warning that the situation could spark a wider regional conflict if left unresolved.