M23 fighters and Rwandan troops have advanced in eastern DRC, capturing key towns close to Bukavu. Burundi has warned it will respond if attacked and deployed troops to support Congo. The Congolese government seeks urgent regional discussions to address escalating violence and humanitarian concerns, while Rwanda’s involvement strains relations further. War’s potential implications for the region loom large amidst failed peace talks.
On Wednesday, M23 fighters, supported by Rwandan troops, made significant advances in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). They captured Ihusi and Kalehe, two towns crucial for the route to Bukavu, the provincial capital of South Kivu. Local residents reported the presence of numerous fighters moving stealthily through Kalehe. Burundi’s government has issued a warning to Rwanda, stating it will respond if attacked.
The Congolese government called for an emergency meeting of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and the East African Community (EAC) to address the situation and potential sanctions following M23’s aggressive actions. Military leaders from SADC and EAC had recently convened to discuss implementing an unconditional ceasefire, but clashes have resumed, particularly near the strategic Kavumu airport, which remains under Congolese control.
Since the M23’s resurgence in 2021, various peace negotiations led by Angola and Kenya have failed to curb the violence in this mineral-rich region. Despite Rwanda’s denial of military backing for the M23, relations between Kigali and Kinshasa have deteriorated. In response, RwandAir announced that DRC has closed its airspace to Rwandan-registered aircraft, necessitating flight reroutes.
Burundi has deployed approximately 10,000 troops to South Kivu to assist the Congolese army, with involvement in recent skirmishes against the M23. Burundi’s President Evariste Ndayishimiye emphasized a strong stance against potential aggression from Rwanda, referring to it as a “bad neighbour” and warning that the ongoing conflict could escalate into a regional war.
In Goma, the provincial capital of North Kivu, M23’s control has led to displacement, as camps emptied after the group commanded people to vacate within 72 hours. Families, including those with disabled members, were forced to leave their shelters. Meanwhile, a Congolese religious delegation from Kinshasa has sought discussions with the political-military group M23, although the government in Kinshasa has not agreed to direct negotiations.
The ongoing conflict in eastern DRC highlights the precarious situation with the M23’s advance causing alarm among regional leaders. With Burundi pledging military support to Congo and threatening action against Rwanda, the potential for escalation grows. International discussions continue to seek a resolution, but the humanitarian impact on displaced individuals remains severe amid failed peace negotiations.
Original Source: www.inkl.com
