Burundi has accelerated its military withdrawal from the DRC due to rising tensions with M23 rebels. The UN reports a significant influx of refugees into Burundi, with approximately 30,000 crossing the border recently. Humanitarian needs among refugees are pressing, as many struggle without basic necessities.
Burundi has expedited the withdrawal of some military troops from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), according to a senior military official speaking to AFP. This decision comes amid reports from the United Nations indicating a significant influx of refugees into Burundi, the largest seen in 25 years, as tensions escalate due to advances by Rwandan-backed M23 fighters in eastern DRC.
The M23 group has reportedly made significant territorial gains, capturing cities like Goma and Bukavu, raising concerns at the UN Security Council about a potential regional crisis. As the situation deteriorates, Burundi’s military is pulling back its forces from the Rusizi plain, with measures taken to secure their extraction. The exact number of troops withdrawn has not been disclosed, though at least one battalion has been deployed for this purpose.
More than 10,000 Burundian soldiers had previously been sent to support the Congolese army against the M23 group and other factions. However, the situation has become critical for these soldiers, who reportedly lack adequate supplies of ammunition and food, making their operational capacity extremely difficult.
The refugee situation in Burundi has intensified, with UNHCR representative Brigitte Mukanga-Eno noting that the country is experiencing the highest number of refugees since the early 2000s. It has been estimated that around 30,000 individuals have fled DRC into Burundi recently, with many describing harrowing escapes from violence.
As conditions worsen, refugees are requesting urgent assistance, as many are sleeping outside without sufficient shelter or provisions. Interior Minister Martin Niteretse stated that plans are being made to relocate these refugees to eastern Burundi to enhance their safety and acknowledges their need for refugee status.
Prior to this escalation, Burundi was already home to nearly 90,000 refugees, primarily Congolese, fleeing prior conflicts in DRC. The UN has reported that additional Congolese soldiers have also sought refuge in Burundi, heightening the existing complexities.
The UN has expressed increased concern over the ramifications of the ongoing conflict, with Bintou Keita, head of MONUSCO, highlighting the advancing M23 towards critical border areas involving DRC, Burundi, and Rwanda. This situation is further compounded by the UN Secretary-General’s special envoy’s warnings about a potential regional conflict.
Given recent developments, the United States has initiated sanctions against Rwandan government officials linked to supporting the M23. Rwanda has denied these claims, asserting that it is responding to threats from Hutu fighters operating in DRC, emphasizing the complex dynamics at play amid this crisis.
In summary, Burundi’s military is hastily withdrawing troops from DRC amidst a growing refugee crisis, with 30,000 individuals fleeing into Burundi recently, spurred by the advances of M23 fighters. As the situation deteriorates, the need for immediate humanitarian assistance for refugees becomes increasingly urgent. International concerns mount over the potential escalation of regional conflict, leading to sanctions against Rwanda amidst the turmoil.
Original Source: thedefensepost.com
