Burundi Troops Deploy in Eastern DRC as UK Halts Aid to Rwanda Amid Conflict

Burundi troops deploy in eastern DRC to support government forces as the UK suspends most aid to Rwanda over M23 rebel activity. This conflict has escalated dramatically since the group resumed operations in late 2021, resulting in significant human suffering. International bodies are pushing for a ceasefire and peace talks while casualties continue to rise.

Burundi troops, supporting the Congolese government, have begun their deployment in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) amidst rising tensions as the UK halts most direct aid to Rwanda, citing its support for M23 rebel fighters. The M23 group has seized two significant cities in the region recently, leveraging their military position since re-engaging in conflict in late 2021. This resurgence of violence continues to exacerbate a decades-long turmoil in the area, leading to substantial human casualties, with millions impacted throughout the years.

A UK government representative expressed concern regarding the military approach to the conflict, stating, “Rwanda may have security concerns but it is unacceptable to resolve these militarily. There can only be a political solution to this conflict,” while adding that aid would resume only after notable improvements in the situation were observed. M23 has taken control of the capitals of South Kivu and North Kivu, advancing largely unopposed by the DRC army, which has faced significant challenges in combat effectiveness.

Reports indicate Burundi troops are strategically advancing towards Uvira to counter the M23’s progress, with residents noting the movements of heavily armed soldiers moving into the region. Concurrently, South African forces wounded in ongoing clashes have returned home for medical treatment, a display of the violence that continues to grip the eastern DRC, further complicating peace efforts.

In response to the crisis, African nations have appointed a trio of former leaders to facilitate peace negotiations, reflecting the acute instability in the region. The International Criminal Court’s prosecutor, Karim Khan, has joined the discourse, voicing serious concern over recent developments and emphasizing the critical need for a ceasefire agreement.

The East African Community and Southern African Development Community are collaborating on a unified peace effort, seeking an immediate ceasefire and improved humanitarian access. Discussions for a ceasefire plan will occur in a scheduled ministerial meeting, as rising violence contributes to an alarming security situation with significant loss of life reported since January. Congolese authorities indicate over 7,000 fatalities in the region during this period, underscoring the urgency of the situation, with UN reports further corroborating these troubling statistics.

In summary, the ongoing conflict in eastern DRC has escalated significantly as M23 forces reintegrate into the region, prompting international responses, including a cessation of UK aid to Rwanda. The deployment of Burundian troops aims to counteract the advancing rebel forces, while African leaders strive for a diplomatic resolution. The alarming death toll and humanitarian crisis emphasize the necessity for immediate interventions and coherent peace strategies to stabilize the region.

Original Source: www.kulr8.com