The ongoing crisis in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is driven by a deadly interplay of armed rebellion, failed state institutions, and international complicity. The M23 militia’s recent takeover of Goma underscores the Congolese army’s systemic weakness, rooted in colonial legacies and decades of authoritarian rule. Meanwhile, over 7.8 million people are displaced, and international humanitarian aid has sharply declined. Rwanda’s renewed military backing of M23 reveals how ethnic narratives, security concerns, and economic interests – especially in mineral-rich areas – intertwine to perpetuate conflict. Despite evidence of illegal Rwandan involvement, European nations continue to invest in Rwanda’s mineral supply chains, effectively financing armed actors while underfunding the DRC. This double standard undermines the EU’s credibility and highlights broader geopolitical shifts that have accelerated since the U.S. scaled back its international commitments under the Trump administration. A sustainable solution requires Europe to align its values with its actions—through sanctions, supply chain oversight, military reform assistance, and robust civil society support. Only a coherent and value-driven EU policy can help break the cycle of exploitation and conflict in the Great Lakes region.
