Burundian troops are deploying in eastern DRC following UK aid suspensions to Rwanda due to M23 rebel actions. The M23 has gained territory amid ongoing violence affecting millions. International efforts are underway to establish a ceasefire amidst exacerbating humanitarian crises from the conflict.
Burundian troops are currently deploying in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) as the United Kingdom has decided to suspend most direct bilateral aid to Rwanda. This suspension is a response to the actions of the M23 rebels, which have captured significant territories in the region and are allegedly supported by Rwandan military personnel. The ongoing violence in eastern DRC has been chronic and catastrophic, resulting in millions of fatalities over the last three decades.
The M23 armed group has recently gained control of strategic locations, including Bukavu, the capital of South Kivu, and Goma, the capital of North Kivu. The DRC army has faced criticism for its inability to resist the M23 and has reportedly fled, committing atrocities during their withdrawal. As the situation escalates, M23 continues to advance toward Uvira, prompting Burundian troops to mobilize for intervention.
Residents reported seeing Burundian soldiers moving north of Uvira, with some crossing the border over the Ruizi River. Local militia, known as Wazalendo, are also joining these forces in preparation for confrontation. Meanwhile, the town of Kamanyola, where M23 forces are present, is experiencing a significant population decrease because of fears of renewed conflict.
A contingent of South African soldiers who sustained injuries in the conflict has returned to their home country for medical treatment as part of a Southern African Development Community (SADC) mission aimed at stabilizing the region. Concurrently, ex-leaders from various African nations have been tasked with facilitating a peace dialogue amidst surging violence and instability.
The International Criminal Court (ICC) prosecutor expressed concern over the situation, emphasizing the need for political rather than military solutions to the ongoing conflict. The East African Community (EAC) and SADC have merged their efforts for a regional ceasefire, appointing three former leaders to spearhead a new peace initiative. They are striving to ensure immediate ceasefire conditions and facilitate humanitarian aid access.
The Prime Minister of DRC highlighted the acute humanitarian crisis, revealing over 7,000 fatalities since January, underscoring the alarming nature of the security situation. Initiatives to collect data and provide aid are required urgently to address the deteriorating conditions resulting from the ongoing conflict. The United Nations has reported thousands of deaths concurrent with the M23 offensive, illustrating the scale of the crisis.
The situation in eastern DRC continues to deteriorate as Burundian troops deploy to counter M23 advances amid UK aid suspensions to Rwanda. The involvement of various international agencies and regional peace efforts underscores the urgency of finding a political resolution to the conflict. The escalating violence has led to significant humanitarian consequences, demanding immediate attention from both national and international actors.
Original Source: www.kulr8.com
