M23 Rebels Withdraw from Peace Talks with Democratic Republic of Congo Amid EU Sanctions

M23 rebels backed by Rwanda have withdrawn from peace talks with the Democratic Republic of Congo just before scheduled negotiations. Their exit follows EU sanctions imposed on them and Rwandan officials. Despite this, the Congolese government confirmed attendance at the talks, emphasizing ongoing complexities rooted in historical conflict and recent military advances by M23.

On Monday, the M23 rebels, backed by Rwanda, withdrew from imminent peace talks with the Democratic Republic of Congo’s government, which were scheduled to take place in Angola. This decision came just a day before the talks were set to occur, attributed to recent sanctions imposed by the European Union targeting M23 and Rwandan officials. The Congo River Alliance indicated that these sanctions hindered the possibility of successful negotiations.

The M23 has long sought direct discussions with the Congolese government, yet President Felix Tshisekedi had previously rejected this, viewing M23 as a proxy for Rwanda. However, he revised his stance and approved a delegation to attend the talks in Luanda following recent military setbacks and pressure from Angola. Despite the rebels’ exit, Tshisekedi’s government confirmed its commitment to the discussions in Angola.

The ongoing conflict stems from historical tensions dating back to Rwanda’s 1994 genocide and competition for mineral resources, escalating dramatically since January. M23 forces have seized major cities in eastern Congo, resulting in thousands of fatalities and widespread displacement.

The EU sanctions mark a significant response to the M23’s increased military activity this year, targeting Rwandan mining operations and a gold refinery. Analyst Zobel Behalal highlighted that these sanctions recognize the financial motives behind Rwanda’s engagement in the conflict. The sanctions, combined with M23’s allegations of international bias against them, have complicated the prospect of meaningful dialogue.

In a further escalation of tensions, Rwanda severed diplomatic ties with Belgium in response to its calls for comprehensive EU measures against Kigali, ordering Belgian diplomats to depart within 48 hours. Belgium’s Foreign Affairs Minister condemned Rwanda’s actions as disproportionate and stated that reciprocal diplomacy would follow.

The withdrawal of the M23 rebels from peace talks with the Democratic Republic of Congo highlights the significant challenges faced in resolving the longstanding conflict, which has deep historical roots. The EU sanctions introduced against the rebels and Rwanda introduce further complexities, potentially undermining the prospect of dialogue. As the M23 accuses international actors of bias and Rwanda retaliates diplomatically against Belgium, the future of peace talks remains uncertain amid ongoing violence in eastern Congo.

Original Source: www.newsbreak.com