Burundi Troops Deploy in Eastern DRC Amidst Rising Tensions and Aid Suspension
Burundi troops have been deployed in eastern DRC amidst escalating violence involving M23 fighters backed by Rwanda. The UK has suspended aid to Rwanda due to these conflicts. Former African leaders are facilitating peace negotiations as deaths in the region exceed 7,000 since January. The ICC prosecutor has raised alarms over the situation, emphasizing the need for political resolutions and humanitarian access.
Burundi troops are currently deploying in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) as the United Kingdom has announced the suspension of most direct bilateral aid to Rwanda. This decision follows an offensive by the M23 fighters, a group allegedly supported by Rwandan soldiers. The M23 has recently captured two significant cities in eastern DRC, establishing a strong presence in this resource-rich region since rearming in late 2021.
The ongoing violence in eastern DRC marks the latest chapter in a conflict that has persisted for nearly thirty years, resulting in millions of fatalities. A spokesperson from the UK government stated, “Rwanda may have security concerns but it is unacceptable to resolve these militarily. There can only be a political solution to this conflict,” emphasizing that aid will remain on hold until notable advancements in peace are observed.
In recent weeks, M23 fighters gained control of Bukavu, the capital of South Kivu, and Goma, the capital of North Kivu. The group has made substantial territorial gains with little resistance from the DRC army, some of whom have abandoned their positions amid reports of atrocities against civilians. M23 troops are now reportedly advancing towards Uvira while Burundian forces mobilize to counter them.
Witnesses report increased movement of Burundian soldiers toward Luvungi to confront M23 advancements. Additionally, many members of the pro-Kinshasa militia, Wazalendo, are joining these forces. Despite the presence of M23 fighters near Kamanyola, residents have noted that the area remains quiet, although fear persists among the local population regarding potential clashes.
In response to the escalating conflict, African leaders appointed three former presidents to facilitate peace negotiations. This comes as the International Criminal Court (ICC) prosecutor, Karim Khan, expressed grave concerns regarding the deteriorating situation in eastern DRC. Both the East African Community (EAC) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC) are aiming for a ceasefire and humanitarian assistance.
Khan reaffirmed, “The message has to be conveyed very clearly: any armed group, any armed forces, any allies to armed groups or armed forces don’t have a blank cheque.” The EAC and SADC will convene a ministerial meeting to detail plans for an immediate ceasefire and improve humanitarian access, with thousands reportedly killed since January. The DRC Prime Minister indicated that over 7,000 fatalities have been recorded in the ongoing conflict, which is recognized as reaching alarming levels.
The situation in eastern DRC is deteriorating rapidly as violence escalates, exacerbated by the involvement of foreign troops and local militia. The UK’s suspension of aid reflects serious international concerns over military solutions to regional instability. In the face of these challenges, regional leaders are attempting to broker peace, though significant strides are necessary to stabilize this conflict-ridden area. The urgent focus on ceasefire agreements and humanitarian aid is quintessential as the humanitarian crisis deepens in eastern DRC.
Original Source: www.deltanews.tv
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