France has strongly condemned Rwanda’s involvement in the Democratic Republic of Congo, particularly the offensive led by the M23 rebel group, which has resulted in the deaths of six peacekeepers and displaced thousands of people.
French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot made the statement on Monday, emphasizing that the fighting must cease and dialogue must resume.
The situation in the Democratic Republic of Congo has escalated, with Congolese rebels claiming to have taken control of Goma, the largest city in the eastern part of the country.
The city’s capture has forced thousands to flee, sparking concerns of a regional war.
Barrot’s statement came as he arrived at the Council of European Foreign Ministers in Brussels, where he reiterated France’s solidarity with the Democratic Republic of Congo.
The international community is increasingly concerned about the deteriorating situation in the region, with the United Nations warning of a potential regional conflagration.