Conflict in Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo

SOURCE www.nbcnews.com
M23 rebels backed by Rwanda have seized the city of Goma in eastern Congo, leading to a military response from Congo President Felix Tshisekedi. The East African bloc and the UN have called for an immediate ceasefire and negotiations between Congo and the rebels.

Key Points

  • M23 rebels captured Goma, the capital of North Kivu province, and are advancing further south.
  • Congo President plans a military response to recover lost territory from the rebels.
  • Diplomatic efforts have so far not had a significant impact on the ground.
  • Decades-old conflict in eastern Congo rooted in Rwanda's 1994 genocide spillover and mineral control struggles.

Pros

  • Efforts by the East African bloc and the UN to call for a ceasefire and negotiations to halt the conflict.

Cons

  • Escalation of violence in eastern Congo with rebels seizing the city of Goma.