The Rwandan government has accused the Democratic Republic of Congo of amassing a substantial arsenal in Goma, allegedly intended for an invasion of Rwanda.
This assertion follows the recent capture of Goma by the M23 rebel group, during which a considerable weapons cache was uncovered.
Rwanda's government spokesperson, Yolande Makolo, addressed the issue on social media platform X, stating, "Those weapons were not for attacking a small rebel group like M23; they had been assembled to invade Rwanda. It was a matter of time."
Ms Makolo's comments suggest that while diplomatic discussions were ongoing, DR Congo was simultaneously preparing for military aggression against Rwanda.
An investigative report by The New Times, a Rwandan state-owned publication, provides further insights into the situation.
Executive Editor James Munyaneza conducted an on-ground assessment in Goma, revealing the presence of heavy weaponry and a significant troop buildup.
The report indicates that the arsenal included advanced artillery, armored vehicles, and stockpiles of ammunition, far exceeding what would be necessary for operations against the M23.
The Rwandan government contends that while both nations were engaged in peace talks in Luanda and other international forums, DR Congo President Félix Tshisekedi was orchestrating a military buildup near the Rwandan border.
Ms Makolo highlighted this contradiction, noting, "While Rwanda and DR Congo were talking in Luanda and with others in the international community about a political solution, President Tshisekedi was amassing heavy arms and troops at our border and boasting publicly about attacking Rwanda."
This development is the latest in a series of escalating tensions between the two nations.
The DR Congo has consistently accused Rwanda of supporting the M23 rebel group, a claim that Rwanda has denied. Conversely, Rwanda alleges that DR Congo collaborates with the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR), a militia group opposed to the Rwandan government.
In previous statements, President Tshisekedi has expressed frustration over perceived Rwandan interference in eastern DR Congo.
Addressing supporters in Kinshasa, he declared, "I've had enough of invasions and M23 rebels backed by Kigali!" Such rhetoric has fueled concerns about the potential for open conflict between the two countries.
The discovery of the weapons cache and the subsequent allegations have significant implications for regional stability.
The international community has been actively involved in mediating the conflict, with various peace agreements and ceasefires brokered over the years.
However, the recent revelations cast doubt on the sincerity of the DR Congo's commitment to a peaceful resolution.
The Rwandan government's accusations against DR Congo mark a critical juncture in the fraught relations between the two nations.
The alleged discovery of a substantial weapons cache in Goma, purportedly intended for an invasion of Rwanda, underscores the fragility of peace in the region.
As both countries continue to trade accusations, the role of the international community in de-escalating tensions and fostering genuine dialogue becomes increasingly vital.
The US on Thursday sanctioned Rwanda's regional affairs minister James Kabarebe and M23 spokesperson Larewnce Kanyuka while Rwanda broke development assistance ties with Belgium.
