South Africa Warns Rwanda Over DRC Troop Attacks

Tensions are escalating in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) as South African peacekeepers face mounting casualties. At least 13 South African soldiers have been killed in recent clashes with M23 rebels, prompting President Cyril Ramaphosa to issue a stern warning to Rwanda.

Defence Minister Angie Motshekga revealed that Ramaphosa warned Rwandan President Paul Kagame that any attacks on South African troops would be considered a declaration of war. This warning came after a phone call between the two leaders to discuss the escalating conflict.

Deadly Clashes in Goma

The violence has intensified in Goma, the capital of North Kivu province, with dire consequences for South African peacekeepers.

• Nine South African soldiers were killed last week during skirmishes with M23 rebels.
• Three more died in a bombing near Goma airport on Monday.
• One soldier injured in previous battles succumbed to his injuries, bringing the total fatalities to 13 in just one week.

The soldiers, deployed as part of Sadc and UN peacekeeping missions, were caught in crossfire between M23 rebels and the DRC army. Motshekga confirmed intense fighting in Goma, with South African troops carefully avoiding engagement.

Rwanda’s Involvement

The DRC and the UN peace mission have accused Rwandan troops of supporting the M23 rebels. Rwanda denies directly supporting the rebels but insists it’s defending itself against threats from DRC militias.

Tensions further escalated when Rwandan and DRC armies exchanged fire across their shared border on Monday, as the rebels attempted to secure control of Goma.

Call for Peace and Ceasefire

Despite the dire situation, South Africa remains committed to finding a peaceful solution. Motshekga stated that President Ramaphosa has been in constant contact with DRC President Félix Tshisekedi and Sadc leaders in the region, urging for a ceasefire and resumption of peace talks.

A brief ceasefire was agreed upon on Wednesday to allow the M23 rebels to retrieve the bodies of their fallen fighters.

Stay informed about the evolving situation in the DRC.