The rising conflict between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has caught the attention of former President Donald Trump.

The war situation has intensified with M23 rebels, allegedly supported by Rwanda, advancing into Goma, sparking international calls for intervention and close monitoring by the Trump administration, as Breitbart reports.

This complex conflict has roots dating back to the 1994 Rwandan genocide and involves multiple regional and international actors. M23, an insurgency largely composed of Tutsis and backed by Rwanda, has launched a significant offensive into the eastern provincial capital of Goma.

Rwanda and DRC at Odds Amid Accusations

Both countries have been trading accusations, with each government blaming the other for the unrest. Rwanda claims its involvement is an effort to neutralize the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR) operating in the DRC. On the other hand, the Congolese government accuses Rwanda of using M23 to destabilize the region and seize control of its territory.

The political leader of M23, Corneille Nangaa, has expressed intentions to march to Kinshasa, the capital of DRC, with ambitions “to take power and lead the country.” This statement underscores the gravity of the situation and the potential for further conflict.

Challenges Face DRC Defense, Leadership

Guy Kabombo Muadimvita, the Congolese Defense Minister, has vowed to resist M23's advances. He has expressed a firm resolve to defend the country, stating, “We will stay here in Congo and fight. If we do not stay alive here, let’s stay dead here.”

However, despite the mounting tensions, the DRC government has dismissed calls for dialogue from M23, opting instead to maintain a rigid stance against negotiations.

The U.N. has criticized the actions of M23, reporting deliberate attacks and “summary executions of at least 12 people” in late January. Additionally, it is alleged that about 4,000 Rwandan troops are currently in DRC.

International Efforts to Mediate Conflict Ensue

Paul Kagame, the President of Rwanda, has sought help from Angola to initiate peace talks, marking a critical step toward diplomatically addressing the conflict. Kagame has also criticized South African peacekeepers, labeling them as a “belligerent force” actively engaged in combat.

This accusation has not gone unnoticed. South Africa has explicitly warned that further attacks on its troops would be taken as an act of war, raising tensions and international stakes.

Furthermore, DRC's foreign minister has accused Rwanda of attempting to overthrow its government, a claim that Rwanda has firmly denied, insisting it has no interest in regime change or annexation.

Reactions from Prominent Global Figures Emerge

Trump has acknowledged the seriousness of the conflict but refrained from discussing it in detail during an event focused on other topics. He remarked, “You’re asking me a question about Rwanda, and it is a very serious problem, I agree, but I don’t think it’s appropriate right now to talk about it.”

His comment underscores the sensitivity and urgency of the situation, drawing attention from international figures seeking a resolution.

As the situation unfolds, the ongoing conflict in the DRC and efforts to mediate peace are drawing increased international focus.

Looking Ahead to Potential Outcomes

With Rwanda denying intentions of annexation or regime change and ongoing efforts for diplomatic engagement, the region awaits the outcome of these attempts to establish peace.

The stakes remain high as Rwanda and DRC continue to navigate the complex dynamics of this multi-faceted conflict.

This geopolitical struggle underscores the lingering impacts of historical conflicts and the critical need for comprehensive international efforts to maintain stability in the region.

The international community will be closely watching the developments in the Congo, with safety, sovereignty, and peace hanging in the balance.