Rwandan President Paul Kagame has urged an immediate ceasefire in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and called for a lasting solution to the root causes of the conflict.
“Had a productive conversation with Secretary Rubio @SecRubio on the need to ensure a ceasefire in Eastern DRC and address the root causes of the conflict once and for all,” Kagame stated.
His remarks come as fresh clashes between M23 rebels and the Congolese Armed Forces (FARDC) intensify, forcing thousands to flee and triggering cross-border tensions.
Reports indicate that the Rwanda Defence Forces (RDF) have deployed air defence systems in response to missile attacks from the DRC.
According to Rwanda’s The New Times, at least two bombs landed in Mbugangari, Rubavu District, injuring about 15 civilians.
RDF spokesperson Brigadier-General Ronald Rwivanga accused FARDC and the UN-sanctioned FDLR militia of launching the attacks from Goma.
The conflict has pushed Congolese refugees into Rwanda, while dozens of FARDC soldiers have been seen crossing the border, reportedly discarding their uniforms to evade capture by M23 forces.
Border crossings at Petite Barrière and Grande Barrière slowed to a trickle as Rwanda ordered the temporary closure of schools and businesses in Rubavu.
The Rwandan government has called for renewed engagement in the Luanda and Nairobi peace processes, warning that continued military aggression by FARDC and its allies only deepens the crisis.
Meanwhile, M23 rebels have captured Goma, the capital of North Kivu, in a stunning escalation of the conflict. The group declared control over the city, demanding the surrender of FARDC soldiers and warning of consequences for non-compliance.
The humanitarian situation is deteriorating rapidly, with thousands of displaced civilians left stranded in overcrowded camps lacking food, water, and medical care.
UN personnel have reportedly fled into Rwanda, and all evacuation routes, including lake passages, have been cut off.
Kagame underscored the need for regional stability, stating, “I look forward to working with the Trump Administration to create the prosperity and security that the people of our region deserve.”
Previously on Monday, with tensions at a boiling point, Kenyan President William Ruto called for an emergency regional summit after speaking with Kagame and DRC President Felix Tshisekedi.
Kagame, however, emphasized the need for mutual respect in diplomatic relations. “On the importance of deepening our bilateral ties based upon respect for our respective national interests,” he stated.
As the conflict escalates, all eyes are now on regional leaders and global powers to determine whether diplomacy can prevail over war.