Goma Gripped by Conflict as President Tshisekedi Slams Global Inaction
DR Congo President Félix Tshisekedi has pledged a 'vigorous' military response to Rwanda-backed M23 rebels who now control most of Goma, a strategic eastern city of 1 million people. In a fiery televised address, he accused the international community of 'silence and inaction' amid the escalating conflict that has displaced 500,000+ people this month. 💔
'Cut Off From the World'
Goma residents like student Merdi Kambelenge describe a city paralyzed by power outages and looting. 'Today we’re not afraid, but we’re cut off from the world,' he told AFP. Over 100 deaths and 1,000 injuries have overwhelmed hospitals, while protesters in Kinshasa attacked embassies demanding action.
Regional Tensions at Boiling Point
Rwanda's ambassador-at-large Vincent Karega controversially told AFP the M23 advance 'will continue,' possibly reaching Kinshasa. The DRC accuses Rwanda of exploiting mineral-rich regions—a claim backed by UN reports but denied by Kigali. 🌐
Calls for Peace, But No Resolution
Despite urgent appeals from the UN, U.S., and EU, crisis talks between Tshisekedi and Rwandan leader Paul Kagame collapsed this week. Angolan officials now scramble to mediate fresh negotiations. With cobalt and coltan reserves at stake, experts warn this could spark a wider Great Lakes conflict. ⚠️
