On Wednesday, January 29, President Paul Kagame revealed that he had spoken with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio about the urgent need for a ceasefire in eastern DR Congo, where M23 rebels recently seized Goma. Their discussion also touched on addressing the root causes of the ongoing conflict and strengthening bilateral relations based on mutual respect.
Kagame expressed his commitment to working with the Trump Administration to foster regional stability and prosperity.
The takeover of Goma, a city with a population of about two million, followed an ultimatum issued by M23 for Congolese government forces to surrender. Many Congolese troops laid down their arms and handed them over to the UN mission, MONUSCO. However, fighting continued as the Congolese army, along with FDLR militia, launched attacks on Rwandan territory, resulting in civilian casualties.
The conflict has further strained relations between Rwanda and DR Congo, with Kinshasa accusing Rwanda of backing M23—an allegation Kigali denies. Instead, Rwanda raises concerns over the Congolese army’s collaboration with FDLR, a UN-sanctioned terrorist group linked to the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. Rwanda also cites the presence of foreign forces near its border, including Burundian troops, European mercenaries, and South Africa-led SADC forces, as a security threat.
While Rwanda advocates for a political resolution through negotiations with M23, Kinshasa refuses to engage in talks, branding the rebels as terrorists. A mediation effort led by Angola in December failed when the Congolese government backed out of an agreement that could have set the stage for dialogue.
As the conflict intensifies, East African Community (EAC) Heads of State are expected to convene a crisis meeting to explore solutions for restoring peace in the region.