French President Emmanuel Macron has urged Rwanda to end its alleged backing of the M23 rebels in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and withdraw its troops from Congolese territory. The call comes amid escalating tensions and widespread displacement caused by the conflict in North Kivu province, highlighting the need for regional stability and respect for sovereignty.
A Plea for Territorial Integrity
During a joint press conference with DRC President Felix Tshisekedi at the Élysée Palace in Paris, Macron emphasized the importance of territorial integrity, drawing parallels between conflicts in Africa and Europe. “Rwanda must halt its support for M23 and withdraw its forces from Congolese territory,” he stated, linking the DRC’s situation to broader global principles of sovereignty, such as those challenged by Russia’s actions in Ukraine. Macron’s remarks underscore France’s commitment to supporting the DRC in addressing the ongoing crisis.
Tshisekedi welcomed France’s strengthened support, noting that it demonstrates the DRC’s ability to rely on Paris as a partner. He expressed openness to renewed dialogue with Rwanda, provided Rwandan troops leave Congolese soil, signaling a potential path toward de-escalation if conditions are met.
The M23 Rebellion and Regional Tensions
The M23 rebellion, primarily composed of Tutsi fighters, reignited in late 2021 after years of dormancy, capturing significant areas of North Kivu province. The DRC, along with the United Nations and Western nations, accuses Rwanda of supporting the group, a claim Rwanda’s President Paul Kagame has consistently denied. Kagame, while dismissing direct involvement, has expressed sympathy for M23 and accused the DRC of backing a Hutu militia hostile to Kigali, complicating regional dynamics.
Tshisekedi described the M23 as an empty shell manipulated by Rwanda to threaten the DRC’s stability. He condemned the predatory ambitions of foreign powers, highlighting the human toll of the conflict. According to UN estimates, nearly 7 million people are displaced across the DRC, with 2.5 million in North Kivu alone, driven by recent fighting that has uprooted tens of thousands.
Calls for Peace and Accountability
The International Federation for Human Rights (FIDH) urged Macron and Tshisekedi to prioritize peace, environmental protection, and human rights in their discussions. The organization, alongside its DRC and French member groups, stressed the need for a concerted effort to address the humanitarian crisis and hold accountable those fueling the conflict. The M23’s actions, coupled with allegations of foreign interference, have intensified calls for international intervention to stabilize the region.
A Complex Path Forward
The conflict in eastern DRC remains a pressing challenge, with both sides accusing each other of supporting hostile militias. Macron’s appeal for Rwanda to disengage from M23 underscores the urgency of resolving the crisis to prevent further displacement and suffering. As the DRC seeks support from allies like France, the path to peace hinges on diplomatic efforts, regional cooperation, and addressing the root causes of the insurgency.
