M23 Rebels Pull Out of Peace Talks with Congo
The Rwanda-backed M23 rebels, who currently control key areas in eastern Congo, have announced their withdrawal from peace talks set to take place this week in Luanda, Angola. The group cited European Union sanctions against its members and ongoing military offensives by Congo’s army as the main reasons for their decision, calling the planned discussions “impracticable.”
Despite this setback, Congo’s government remains determined to engage in dialogue, with a delegation already present in Luanda. The conflict, fueled by competition over valuable mineral resources, has escalated significantly in recent months. In January, M23 seized the strategic city of Goma, and by February, had advanced to Bukavu, deepening the humanitarian crisis in the region, which has displaced over seven million people.
Angola, serving as the mediator, initially planned these talks to foster peace between Congo and M23 after earlier attempts at discussions between Congo and Rwanda collapsed in December. Rwanda had insisted on direct dialogue between Congo and M23, a condition Congo rejected. The strained relations have also led Rwanda to sever diplomatic ties with Belgium after accusing the latter of destabilization efforts.
International attention is intensifying as both the European Union and the United Nations take action. The EU has imposed sanctions on several individuals linked to the conflict, including M23 leaders, while the U.N. Human Rights Council investigates allegations of atrocities committed by both sides. The U.S. is also exploring economic opportunities with Congo, emphasizing the importance of stability to encourage foreign investment.
The future of peace in eastern Congo hangs in the balance, as M23’s withdrawal casts doubt on potential resolutions. With the humanitarian crisis worsening and international stakes rising, the global community continues to monitor the volatile situation closely.
Source: AfricaNews