Burundi Troops Deploy in Eastern DRC Amid UK Aid Suspension to Rwanda
Burundi troops are deploying in eastern DRC amidst the UK’s suspension of aid to Rwanda due to M23 fighter support. M23 has captured key cities, contributing to a crisis marked by decades of conflict and considerable civilian casualties. Regional peace efforts are underway, involving former leaders and the ICC, aiming for a ceasefire and addressing accountability.
Burundi troops, allied with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), are deploying in eastern DRC amid a suspension of most UK aid to Rwanda due to support for M23 fighters, who have recently captured significant cities in the region. This conflict has renewed longstanding violence in a region plagued by war for nearly three decades, which has resulted in millions of deaths.
The UK government announced the aid suspension, citing the need for a political resolution rather than military action, emphasizing it’s unacceptable for Rwanda to address security concerns with force. M23’s recent territorial gains, including Bukavu and Goma, highlight its growing influence despite weak resistance from the DRC army, whose soldiers reportedly abandoned their posts.
The M23 group is advancing towards Uvira, while Burundian troops are moving to counter them. Local sources report an influx of heavily armed Burundian soldiers deploying to the region, drawing participation from pro-Kinshasa militia, with residents expressing fear about potential clashes.
The situation remains tense in Kamanyola, where civilians are fleeing amidst a calm facade. Meanwhile, South African soldiers who were injured in the violence are returning home for medical treatment as part of a regional peacekeeping mission.
In response to the violence, African nations have appointed former leaders to facilitate peace talks, with plans for a ceasefire involving regional blocs, including the East African Community and the Southern African Development Community. The International Criminal Court has also launched an investigation into the rising violence, stressing accountability for armed groups.
DRC Prime Minister Judith Suminwa Tuluka reported alarming death tolls in the region, with conflicting numbers emerging, underscoring the dire security situation worsened by the M23 campaign. The UN’s humanitarian agency has recorded deaths amid the ongoing crisis, with continued aggression and instability affecting the civilian population severely.
The conflict in eastern DRC represents a complex situation involving regional troop deployments, foreign influence from Rwanda, and escalating violence by M23 fighters. The UK has responded by suspending aid to Rwanda until peace efforts yield results. With significant military and humanitarian concerns, the involvement of former African leaders in peace efforts and ICC investigations reflects the urgent need for stability and resolution in the region.
Original Source: www.communitynewspapergroup.com
