M23 Accuses DRC Government of Sabotaging Peace Talks in Angola

The M23 armed group alleges the DRC government is undermining peace talks by launching airstrikes, just ahead of direct negotiations scheduled in Angola. The situation is compounded by Rwanda breaking ties with Belgium, blaming it for biased actions in the regional conflict.

On March 17, 2025, the M23 movement, which has been engaged in conflict with the Democratic Republic of Congo’s (DRC) government, accused the latter of attempting to sabotage upcoming peace talks in Angola. The claims were made by Lawrence Kanyuka, the spokesman for M23 and the Congo River Alliance. He argued that the DRC has been conducting airstrikes on populated areas, undermining the prospects for dialogue.

Kanyuka acknowledged receiving an invitation from Angola for direct negotiations scheduled for March 18 in Luanda, urging for these talks to proceed without further escalation. Angolan President Joao Lourenco had also called for an immediate ceasefire, which had yet to receive a response from either faction. Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi had previously declined to negotiate with the M23, which has gained control over parts of eastern DRC with Rwandan military backing.

Despite Tshisekedi’s refusal to engage directly with M23, a delegation from DRC is expected to attend the Luanda talks. Details regarding the delegation’s composition were not disclosed, nor was it confirmed if they would partake in direct negotiations. Since early 2025, M23 has expanded its territorial control in resource-rich regions of eastern DRC, raising international concerns over the ongoing conflict.

Meanwhile, Rwanda announced a severance of diplomatic ties with Belgium, accusing the latter of undermining its national interests amid the conflict in the DRC. The Rwandan government emphasized that Belgium has taken a biased position against Rwanda, asserting that it aims to destabilize both Rwanda and the surrounding region. Consequently, Belgian diplomats were ordered to leave Rwanda within 48 hours.

In summary, the M23 movement has accused the DRC government of obstructing peace talks through military aggression just as negotiations are set to begin in Angola. The involvement of Rwandan forces remains a critical factor in the conflict, with diplomatic strains further complicating the situation. The upcoming dialogue aims to address the ongoing violence and seek a resolution, although its success remains uncertain amid these tensions.

Original Source: jordantimes.com