Increased Violence in Central African Republic Amidst Russian Military Involvement
Reports indicate that Russian military engagement in the Central African Republic has intensified violence rather than mitigating conflict. Since the arrival of Russian troops in 2018, numerous civilian casualties and atrocities have been documented. The Kremlin has exploited the country’s natural resources without contributing to stability or genuine peace efforts.
Russia’s military involvement in the Central African Republic (C.A.R.) began in 2018 with the Kremlin-backed Wagner Group, which has since been rebranded as Africa Corps. Despite claims of successful opposition to militant forces, various reports indicate that Russian troops have exacerbated the violence and instability within the country. Instead of facilitating peace, they are viewed as one of the predominant sources of violence, according to multiple sources.
The situation in C.A.R. has notably deteriorated since the arrival of Russian forces. Reports suggest that they have engaged in over 100 instances of fighting and have caused significant civilian casualties, including more than 786 fatalities. The infamous Africa Corps continues its campaign of terror, undermining hopes for recovery amid ongoing civil strife, while the government appears increasingly compromised by the operations of these armed groups.
President Faustin-Archange Touadera’s regime has been fortunate to gain military support from Russia, yet this relationship has not translated into improved security or stability. Instead, the Kremlin has gained control over C.A.R’s lucrative mineral resources, extracting significant profits that have enriched the Russian state but failed to enhance the lives of ordinary citizens in this impoverished nation.
Efforts to facilitate a transition to peace for rebel fighters have been hampered by corruption and failed commitments. Although a peace deal was signed with 14 militia groups, many of these groups continue to operate and exert control, while reports indicate that some fighters have returned to their original factions or to join Russian units.
A continued assessment by the United Nations highlights significant concerns regarding the violence and instability plaguing C.A.R., with civilians suffering gravely under the actions of various armed groups and the use of explosive ordnance. Furthermore, widespread propaganda efforts by Moscow aim to obscure the dire realities faced by civilians in C.A.R., concealing the truth of Russian military actions from the global spotlight.
The involvement of Russian military forces in the Central African Republic has seemingly resulted in increased violence and chaos rather than aiding the peace process. Reports reveal that Russian troops have perpetrated numerous human rights violations while capitalizing on the nation’s natural resources. The ongoing corruption and exploitation by Russian entities underscore the failure of any peace initiatives, leaving the local population in a state of continued suffering and instability.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
