Burundi forces are deploying in eastern DRC where M23 militia, backed by Rwanda, has captured key cities. The UK has suspended aid to Rwanda over the conflict. Attempts for peace negotiations are being led by former African leaders, coinciding with alarming casualty reports in the region, exceeding 7,000 since the year’s start.
Burundi troops, allied with Kinshasa, are continuing their deployment in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) amidst escalating tensions resulting from the Rwandan-backed M23 militia’s recent advances. This armed group has seized major cities including Bukavu and Goma, exacerbating a decades-long cycle of violence that has led to millions of deaths in the region.
As violence intensifies, the UK has decided to suspend most direct aid to Rwanda, citing concerns over M23’s military actions, which are reportedly supported by Rwandan soldiers. A UK government spokesperson emphasized that while Rwanda’s security concerns are acknowledged, military resolutions to the conflict are unacceptable and political solutions must be pursued instead.
M23 fighters are now advancing towards Uvira, located near Lake Tanganyika, while Burundian troops are moving to counter this threat. Local residents report the movement of heavily armed Burundian soldiers towards Luvungi, with pro-Kinshasa militia groups joining them. The situation remains volatile, with fears of renewed clashes causing the town’s population to dwindle further.
In response to the ongoing conflict, African nations have appointed former leaders to facilitate peace negotiations. The International Criminal Court prosecutor has also arrived to investigate the violence outbreak, expressing deep concern regarding the developments in the region. With the collaboration of the East African Community and the Southern African Development Community, efforts are being made to achieve an immediate ceasefire and provide humanitarian assistance.
Concerns over civilian casualties are rising, with reported deaths exceeding 7,000 in the region since the start of the year. The UN has documented over 3,000 casualties related to the M23 offensive since late January, highlighting the urgent need for ceasefire agreements and humanitarian interventions as local leaders address the increasingly dire security situation in eastern DRC.
The deployment of Burundi troops and the suspension of UK aid to Rwanda illustrate the escalating conflict in eastern DRC, primarily driven by M23 militia actions. Political solutions are emphasized as necessary amidst ongoing violence and humanitarian crises. Collaborative regional efforts aim for a ceasefire and stabilization, while the humanitarian toll continues to rise, underscoring the urgency for immediate response and resolution strategies.
Original Source: www.hazard-herald.com
