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VIDEO: Trump Speaks On DRC-Rwanda Tensions
U.S. President Donald Trump avoided commenting in detail on the ongoing tensions between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) when asked by a journalist during a press briefing on Thursday.
When questioned about the conflict, Trump acknowledged the gravity of the situation but declined to elaborate.
“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,” he responded.
His remarks come as tensions between Rwanda and the DRC continue to escalate, with Kinshasa accusing Kigali of supporting the M23 rebel group, a charge Rwanda denies.
The conflict has displaced thousands and drawn international concern over potential regional destabilization. A couple of days ago, the M23 rebels captured the city of Goma in eastern DRC.
VIDEO
Background on the Conflict
The eastern DRC has been plagued by violence for decades, with multiple armed groups operating in the region. Relations between Kinshasa and Kigali have soured over accusations of cross-border interference, particularly regarding Rwanda’s alleged support for the M23 rebel group, which has seized territory in North Kivu province.
Efforts by regional leaders, including initiatives led by the East African Community (EAC) and the African Union (AU), have so far struggled to bring a lasting resolution to the crisis.
While Trump’s remarks suggest an unwillingness to engage with the issue publicly, the unfolding situation in the Great Lakes region remains a pressing concern for policymakers and humanitarian organizations alike.