Burundi Troops Deploy in Eastern DRC as UK Suspends Aid to Rwanda
Burundi has deployed troops in eastern DRC to support Kinshasa amid escalating violence linked to the M23 militia, allegedly backed by Rwanda. The UK has suspended most aid to Rwanda in response. International efforts for peace are underway, with appointed facilitators aiming for a ceasefire amid alarming casualties and humanitarian needs.
Burundi has commenced troop deployments in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) to support Kinshasa as the United Kingdom suspends most bilateral aid to Rwanda due to the latter’s alleged backing of the M23 militia. This group has recently taken control of two significant cities in the region, exacerbating a situation marked by nearly three decades of conflict and extensive human cost.
The M23 militia, reportedly aided by Rwanda, has captured key urban areas including Goma and Bukavu, leading to widespread instability. The DRC army has been unable to defend these territories, with numerous accounts of soldiers abandoning their posts amid ongoing atrocities. As the M23 advances towards Uvira, Burundian soldiers have engaged in countermeasures to halt this progression.
In recent days, residents reported observing convoys of Burundian troops moving toward Luvungi, bolstered by local militia groups. The presence of M23 fighters around Kamanyola has led to increased fears among the local population, prompting many to flee. Concurrently, South African forces in the area were reported to have suffered injuries and have since returned home.
International responses to this crisis include the appointment of former African leaders aimed at facilitating peace. Karim Khan, the International Criminal Court (ICC) prosecutor, expressed deep concern over the deteriorating situation, emphasizing that any military actions from armed groups necessitate accountability. Joint efforts from the East African Community (EAC) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC) aim to establish an immediate ceasefire and ensure humanitarian access.
The dire circumstances in eastern DRC were highlighted by Prime Minister Judith Suminwa Tuluka’s statement on the staggering death toll, with various reports suggesting substantial casualties due to the ongoing violence. The continuous disruptions have drawn the attention of international organizations, including the UN, which noted thousands of deaths directly linked to the recent hostilities.
Additionally, a ministerial meeting is scheduled to address the ceasefire and humanitarian issues, illustrating a collaborative regional approach to restoring peace and stability in a deeply troubled area.
The ongoing conflict in eastern DRC, exacerbated by the involvement of Burundian troops and the M23 militia backed by Rwanda, underscores a complex crisis with significant humanitarian implications. The UK’s aid suspension signals international concern, while regional leaders are mobilizing for peace efforts. With alarming casualty reports from the last months, the urgency for a sustained ceasefire and humanitarian support remains critical as the situation develops.
Original Source: www.communitynewspapergroup.com
