M23 Rebels
What action has the UK taken regarding Rwanda's military activities in the Democratic Republic of Congo?
The UK's foreign ministry has summoned the Rwandan High Commissioner to condemn advances made by the M23 Group in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. This diplomatic action demonstrates the UK's serious concerns about Rwanda's military presence and operations in the region. In addition to the formal summons, the UK has explicitly called for Rwanda to immediately withdraw from Congolese territory. This stance reflects growing international pressure to maintain regional stability and sovereignty in Central Africa, with the UK taking a clear position against foreign military intervention in the DRC.
Watch clip answer (00:12m)What happened to artist Delphine Katembo Vinuasiki (Delcart Idengo) and what was his background?
Delphine Katembo Vinuasiki, better known as Delcart Idengo, was found murdered in a street with his head partially covered in blood. Unconfirmed reports indicate he was shot, though the exact circumstances remain unclear. Idengo was a vocal critic of all sides in the conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. Prior to his death, he had been among hundreds of inmates who escaped from a prison in Goma after militants seized the city the previous month, highlighting how his fate became intertwined with the broader regional instability and violence.
Watch clip answer (00:24m)What is the Congolese government accusing Rwanda of doing in Eastern DRC?
The Congolese government accuses Rwanda of sowing chaos in Eastern DRC and having troops on the ground to benefit from the region's natural resources. President Shisekedi wants his Rwandan counterpart, Paul Kagame, to face sanctions over the unrest, though Rwanda denies these allegations. A Congolese government representative emphasized a change in narrative, stating they now 'call the cat by its name' - directly identifying Rwandan troops on Congolese territory in the east of the country. The official confirmed they have asked these troops to leave, highlighting the growing tension between the two nations over territorial sovereignty and resource control.
Watch clip answer (00:33m)What is happening in Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo with the M23 rebels?
The M23 armed group, reportedly backed by Rwanda, has captured Bukavu's main airport and is advancing toward the city itself, which is the capital of South Kivu province. This offensive has forced hundreds of thousands of people from their homes and created a humanitarian crisis that the UN and European countries warn could spark a wider regional conflict. Amid the escalating violence, the United Nations World Food Program reports that nearly 7,000 tons of food have been looted from a warehouse, further exacerbating the humanitarian situation. The UN has documented human rights violations including looting and summary executions as the security situation continues to deteriorate.
Watch clip answer (00:29m)What recent territorial advances have M23 fighters and Rwandan soldiers made in the Democratic Republic of Congo?
After capturing Goma, the capital of North Kivu, M23 fighters and Rwandan soldiers have expanded their control into the neighboring province of South Kivu. They first advanced to the outskirts of Bukavu, the capital of South Kivu, before completely seizing the city on Sunday. This territorial expansion represents a significant escalation in the conflict, as the rebel forces have now captured two provincial capitals in eastern DRC. This advancement has serious implications for regional stability and has prompted international concern over human rights violations in the affected areas.
Watch clip answer (00:14m)What are residents of Bukavu requesting from authorities during the M23 crisis?
Residents of Bukavu are pleading for authorities to restore security amid escalating violence from armed groups. They specifically request intervention regarding young children who have taken up arms and are disrupting daily life by shooting in neighborhoods and preventing people from working. Rather than lethal force, residents ask authorities to disarm these children so citizens can resume their daily activities. The situation reflects a broader humanitarian crisis in eastern DRC, where the UN has reported severe human rights abuses including child recruitment into armed conflict by the Rwandan-backed M23 group.
Watch clip answer (00:23m)