The M23 movement accused the DRC government of undermining upcoming peace talks in Angola by conducting airstrikes on populated areas. A ceasefire request was made but went unanswered. Rwanda severed diplomatic ties with Belgium, citing its interference in the conflict. Amidst these escalating tensions, peace negotiations are set to begin shortly in Luanda.
On March 17, 2025, the M23 movement, which is supported by Rwanda, accused the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) government of attempting to hinder peace negotiations scheduled to take place in Angola. The M23 spokesperson, Lawrence Kanyuka, alleged that the DRC had conducted airstrikes on densely populated regions, suggesting this was a deliberate act to sabotage the dialogue process, scheduled for March 18. Kanyuka mentioned the receipt of an invitation from Angola for direct discussions with the DRC government.
President Joao Lourenco of Angola has called for a ceasefire, effective from midnight on March 17, but thus far, no response has been received from either party. Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi has refused to engage directly with the M23, which has gained significant territory in eastern DRC since the start of the year, allegedly with Rwandan military support. Following a visit by Tshisekedi to Luanda, Angola, a new round of peace negotiations was confirmed to commence on Tuesday.
Tina Salama, spokesperson for President Tshisekedi, announced that a DRC delegation would attend the talks in Luanda but did not specify its composition or whether direct dialogue would occur. Since January, M23 has made significant territorial gains in major cities such as Goma and Bukavu, both of which are rich in natural resources and located near the Rwandan border.
Additionally, Rwanda officially severed diplomatic relations with Belgium, citing the latter’s alleged bias against Kigali during the ongoing conflict in the DRC. According to a statement from Rwanda’s foreign ministry, Belgium has been accused of mobilizing against Rwanda and fostering a negative image that threatens regional stability. The expulsion of Belgian diplomats is to be executed within 48 hours, as part of Rwanda’s efforts to protect its national interests.
The ongoing tensions between M23 and the DRC government, along with the impending peace talks in Angola, highlight the complexities of the conflict in eastern DRC. The M23’s allegations against the DRC government, coupled with Rwanda’s diplomatic tensions with Belgium, underscore the regional implications and the urgent need for resolution. As peace negotiations commence, the involvement of external forces and the dynamics between these nations will be critical to understand going forward.
Original Source: www.jordantimes.com
