Expressing deep concern, France called on Tuesday for an end to the support provided by Rwanda to the M23 rebel group, which has intensified its offensive in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo.
Despite Rwanda’s denial of backing the M23, the United States, Congo, and a United Nations group of experts have asserted its involvement in funding and fighting alongside the rebel group.
In a government statement, France condemned the M23’s ongoing offensives with Rwandan support and the presence of Rwandan forces on Congolese territory.
Joining international pressure on Rwanda, France urged Rwanda to cease all support for the M23 and withdraw from Congolese territory. The statement reiterated France’s support for a regional mediation process to bring an end to the conflict.
