Burundi troops have deployed in eastern DRC as the UK suspends aid to Rwanda over the M23 offensive. M23 has captured major cities, exacerbating a long-standing conflict. Efforts for peace negotiations are underway, with regional leaders seeking a ceasefire and humanitarian relief amid rising casualties.
Burundi troops were deployed in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) amidst the UK’s suspension of most bilateral aid to Rwanda due to the ongoing offensive by the M23 militia. This militant group, allegedly supported by Rwanda, recently captured key cities in the region, escalating a conflict that has persisted for nearly three decades and resulted in millions of deaths.
The M23’s recent territorial gains include Bukavu, the capital of South Kivu, and Goma, the major hub in North Kivu. Local accounts indicate that the DRC army has largely retreated without effective resistance, leading to concerns about atrocities committed during their flight. The M23 has been reportedly moving toward Uvira, while Burundian troops mobilize to counter their advances.
Reports on troop movements noted heavily armed Burundian soldiers marching towards Luvungi, with some crossing the Ruizi River from Burundi. Additionally, local militias supportive of the Kinshasa government are reportedly joining the Burundian forces. While the town around Kamanyola remains calm, many residents are fleeing due to fears of renewed conflicts in the area.
The involvement of South African forces has also been impacted as troops injured in the regional unrest returned home for medical care. In response to the violence, African leaders appointed former leaders to mediate peace efforts, one of whom emphasized the need for political solutions rather than military responses to conflict. The International Criminal Court prosecutor expressed grave concerns over the situation as violence escalates.
Regional organizations, including the East African Community (EAC) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC), are uniting to negotiate a ceasefire. Former heads of state from Kenya, Ethiopia, and Nigeria are tasked to facilitate this new peace initiative, aiming for an immediate ceasefire and the delivery of humanitarian aid.
The DRC’s Prime Minister reported over 7,000 deaths linked to violence since January, with the UN estimating more than 3,000 fatalities attributed to the M23’s activities. As humanitarian organizations report substantial casualties in Goma, the situation remains critical, prompting international calls for increased monitoring and support to address the unfolding humanitarian crisis.
The deployment of Burundi troops in eastern DRC occurs amid a severe escalation of violence driven by the M23 militia, backed by Rwanda. The UK has halted aid to Rwanda until progress is made to resolve the conflict. Humanitarian crises deepen as more lives are lost, reinforcing the necessity for immediate diplomatic intervention and renewed peace processes in the region.
Original Source: www.rfi.fr
