The war in Congo

The situation in Congo is taking such a dangerous turn that at this stage -- given that the conflict is already international -- one can only hope that a third-party country gets involved in efforts to find a solution. Unfortunately, domestic problems in the U.S. and the hunt for the fundamentalist terrorist Bin Laden doesn't leave Clinton with time for peace missions abroad.

South Africa alone is persisting with diplomatic efforts to bring about a cease fire that could pave the way for negotiations. Western powers must embrace Mandela's work because the frenetic rise in tensions and the fresh boost Kabila has been given by his allies is weakening the possibility of talks.

-- El Mundo, Madrid