Burundi has deployed troops to eastern DRC amid increased conflict with M23 rebels, who are allegedly backed by Rwanda. The UK has paused aid to Rwanda, calling for a political solution to the ongoing violence that has caused significant casualties. Former African leaders are engaged in peace efforts, while concerns about civilian safety grow as fighting continues.
Burundi troops, allied with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), are deploying in the east amid heightened tensions as the UK announces a pause in most direct aid to Rwanda. This decision follows increased offensives by the M23 rebel group, which is reportedly supported by Rwandan soldiers and has captured significant territories in eastern DRC, including Goma and Bukavu.
The M23 has gained control of key cities in eastern DRC since resurrecting its campaign in late 2021, triggering another episode of violence in a region historically plagued by conflict. The ongoing instability has resulted in millions of casualties over the past three decades. The UK government has emphasized that military solutions are unacceptable and insists on a political resolution to the conflict.
Burundi’s military movements include heavily armed troops approaching areas close to M23 zones, particularly near Uvira. Local residents have reported observing an influx of Burundian soldiers traversing the border and joining forces with pro-Kinshasa militias, aiming to counter the M23 advance. Concerns persist among civilians as many flee areas threatened by potential clashes.
Amidst the chaos, South African troops injured in the conflict have returned home for medical care. In a bid to restore peace, regional African organizations have assigned former leaders to facilitate negotiations, hoping to establish a ceasefire. The International Criminal Court’s prosecutor has arrived to address the alarming violence in the region.
Leadership from the East African Community (EAC) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC) is collaborating to enact a ceasefire, with immediate humanitarian assistance being a priority. The cumulative death toll due to escalating violence has surpassed 7,000 since January, according to DRC Prime Minister Judith Suminwa Tuluka, although these figures remain unverifiable independent of sources.
As the international community observes the situation closely, calls for a detailed ceasefire agreement are intensifying, highlighting the urgent need for a resolution to the ongoing violence in eastern DRC.
In summary, the deployment of Burundian troops in eastern DRC coincides with the UK’s suspension of aid to Rwanda, emphasizing the region’s escalating violence linked to M23 rebels. The situation calls for immediate international attention and a cooperative peace process led by former regional leaders to ensure safety and humanitarian support for affected populations.
Original Source: www.rfi.fr
