Clashes between Rwandan and Congolese special forces have escalated in Goma, the provincial capital of North Kivu, creating a volatile and dangerous situation in the region.
Rwandan Forces Cross the Border to Support M23 Rebels
Reports indicate that battalions of Rwandan special forces crossed into the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) on Sunday night.
Their objective was to seize strategic positions in Goma, including the vital Goma International Airport, in support of the M23 rebel group.
The incursion caused significant disruption to the Congolese military. Over 120 regular Congolese soldiers fled across the border into Rubavu, Northern Rwanda, while others attempted to escape via Lake Kivu on boats heading to Bukavu in South Kivu province.
Congolese Forces and Local Militias Fight Back
Despite the setbacks, Congolese special forces, backed by Wazalendo—a local self-defense militia—chose to stand their ground.
Fierce fighting erupted on Monday night and intensified by Tuesday morning, spreading to areas near Goma International Airport.
Residents reported heavy shelling and relentless small-arms fire. “Buildings are being destroyed,” one resident described.
“Congolese special forces are fighting Rwandan forces and M23 rebels block by block.”
A Growing Regional Threat
The escalation has sparked fears that the battle for Goma may not end soon and could spiral into a broader regional conflict.
UN Expresses Alarm Over Humanitarian Crisis
Jean-Pierre Lacroix, the United Nations chief of Peace Operations, described the situation in Goma as “volatile and dangerous.”
He highlighted the dire humanitarian crisis in eastern DRC, where close to 6.5 million people are displaced, including nearly three million in North Kivu alone.
Civilians have borne the brunt of the hostilities, with heavy artillery fire targeting civilian infrastructure.
One particularly devastating attack struck the Charity Maternity Hospital in central Goma, killing and injuring pregnant women, newborns, and civilians.
“Hospitals are overwhelmed and struggling to manage the influx of wounded people,” Lacroix stated.
He also reported that basic services such as water, electricity, and internet are severely disrupted, exacerbating the already dire situation.
Rwandan Involvement Confirmed
In response to questions about Rwanda’s involvement, Lacroix confirmed the presence of Rwandan troops supporting the M23 rebels.
He cited evidence of significant Rwandan troop deployments in and around Goma.
Congolese Government Responds
The DRC government, through spokesperson Patrick Muyaya, reassured the population that efforts are underway to contain the situation and prevent further loss of life.
“In view of the security situation in Goma, marked by the presence of the Rwandan army, the government continues to work to avoid carnage and protect lives,” Muyaya said.
He urged the population to remain calm and avoid acts of vandalism, emphasizing the importance of unity.
“We call on all Congolese, wherever they are, to support the people of North Kivu, our army, and the Supreme Commander. Not a single centimeter of our territory will be surrendered,” he declared.
Protests in Kinshasa Over Goma’s Defense
Meanwhile, protests have erupted in the capital, Kinshasa, as citizens express frustration over President Félix Tshisekedi’s inability to prevent the fall of Goma to Rwandan forces and the M23 rebels.
Tshisekedi is expected to address the nation on Tuesday, amid growing public pressure to take decisive action in response to the crisis.
