The Southern African Development Community intervention force in the mission in the DRC is outgunned and outmanned.

Rwanda says it is open to talks with Pretoria over a fallout regarding Rwanda's involvement in conflict in the DRC which has claimed the lives of 13 South African soldiers. This comes as South Africa's armed forces and defence industry leaders rally to raise funds for the families of the fallen troops.

The Rwandan president accused president Cyril Ramaphosa and officials of distorting talks between the two, calling it a mix of attacks, lies, and misrepresentation

They may be on opposite sides of the Congolese battlefield only by proxy, but Pretoria and Kigali are now trading undiplomatic warnings. The war in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is also stirring up old disputes between the two countries.

President Cyril Ramaphosa has addressed growing speculation about the conditions faced by South African troops deployed in the DRC.

President Cyril Ramaphosa remains in direct contact with the presidents of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and of Rwanda, the perceived backer of the M23 rebels

Rwanda President Paul Kagame has warned South Africa that although Rwanda prefers peace, it will, without doubt, respond to any “confrontation” from any force that threatens its sovereignty or defence forces.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has warned Rwandan President Paul Kagame that failing to halt an assault by Rwanda-backed rebels in Democratic Republic of Congo will carry consequences.