Rwanda-DR Congo Peace Talks Cancelled Amid Ongoing Conflict and Deadlock

Peace negotiations between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo have been cancelled by Angola due to a deadlock regarding Rwandan demands for direct talks with the M23 rebels. The situation continues to exacerbate, with new clashes reported and millions displaced, highlighting a dire need for resolution amid ongoing humanitarian crises.

Peace talks aimed at resolving the conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) have been abruptly cancelled, as announced by the Angolan presidency, acting as mediator between Rwanda and the DRC. The cancellation was unexpected, particularly as negotiations had reached an impasse due to Rwanda’s insistence on direct talks between the DRC and the M23 rebel group, which is alleged to have backing from Rwanda. Angolan President Joao Lourenco was reported to be meeting solely with DRC President Felix Tshisekedi, with the participation of Rwandan President Paul Kagame remaining unclear at the time of the meeting’s cancellation.

With the M23 group capturing significant portions of territory in eastern DRC, the humanitarian situation has worsened, resulting in mass displacements and widespread suffering. Recent accusations by the DRC army claimed that M23 was responsible for civilian deaths, which the group has denied, dismissing the allegations as governmental propaganda. Despite having signed a ceasefire last month, clashes have resumed, prompting heightened concern from the United States regarding the violations committed during this fragile ceasefire period. Aline Kasereka, a local resident, expressed urgent need for a resolution: “We are tired of the war; every day we move, we do not know in which country we are anymore.”

The ongoing conflict in eastern DRC is rooted in the activities of multiple armed groups, particularly the M23, which has captured large areas of territory and displaced millions. The DRC government accuses Rwanda of supporting these rebel forces, while Rwanda maintains that it only acts to protect its borders, particularly in the face of perceived threats from an increased DRC military presence. Recent diplomatic efforts have sought to negotiate peace solutions, yet deadlocks and resurgence of violence continue to complicate these engagements.

The cancellation of peace talks between Rwanda and the DRC highlights the complexities surrounding their long-standing conflict, driven by regional tensions and internal strife within the DRC. As fighting resumes and humanitarian conditions deteriorate, the urgency for diplomatic resolution becomes increasingly critical. The international community remains watchful over the situation, advocating for effective measures to ensure lasting peace and stability in the region.

Original Source: www.aljazeera.com