Burundi Troops Deploy in Eastern DRC Amidst UK Aid Suspension to Rwanda

Burundi troops are deploying in eastern DRC as the UK halts most aid to Rwanda due to the M23 group’s advances in the region. The M23 has gained significant territory since late 2021, leading to a resurgence of violence that has claimed millions of lives. International efforts for peace are underway as the situation worsens.

Troops from Burundi, aligned with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) government, continue their deployment in eastern DRC amidst a backdrop of heightened conflict involving the M23 group, which has recently captured major cities in the region. This escalation has prompted the United Kingdom to suspend most of its direct bilateral aid to Rwanda, as M23 is reportedly supported by forces from that nation.

The M23 group has gained significant territory in eastern DRC since re-entering the conflict in late 2021, with recent advances allowing it to seize control of key locations such as Goma and Bukavu. This resurgence has reignited longstanding violence in a region that has suffered from decades of instability, leading to millions of casualties.

A spokesperson for the UK government emphasized that military solutions are unacceptable for resolving Rwanda’s security issues, insisting on a need for political solutions, and announced the suspension of aid until there is substantial progress in reducing hostilities.

Reports indicate that Burundi troops are moving northward towards Uvira in anticipation of engaging the advancing M23 fighters, with local residents observing movements of heavily armed soldiers heading to Luvungi. Meanwhile, the local population remains fearful of escalated conflict.

International efforts to establish peace have intensified, with former African leaders appointed to oversee a new peace initiative following recent violence. The International Criminal Court (ICC) prosecutor acknowledged the severity of the situation while calling for accountability for armed groups.

Regional organizations, including the East African Community (EAC) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC), are collaborating to foster a ceasefire and humanitarian relief in the area. They have facilitated the appointments of influential figures to lead the peace process.

In summary, the situation in eastern DRC remains precarious, with Burundi’s military deployment coinciding with the intensification of armed conflict involving the M23 group. The suspension of UK aid to Rwanda highlights international concerns regarding the conflict’s management. Ongoing efforts for a ceasefire and humanitarian assistance reflect the urgency of restoring peace in a region plagued by decades of conflict.

Original Source: www.rfi.fr