The M23 group accuses the DRC government of undermining upcoming peace talks by escalating military actions. Angola is mediating dialogue scheduled for March 19, 2025, while tensions rise between Rwanda and Belgium amid the ongoing conflict. The DRC’s territorial challenges in the east are significant, especially with M23’s recent gains.
On March 17, 2025, the M23 armed group, which receives support from Rwanda, accused the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) government of attempting to derail peace talks set to take place in Angola. The M23’s spokesperson, Lawrence Kanyuka, claimed that the DRC had intensified military action in civilian areas, indicating an intent to obstruct the dialogue intended to resolve ongoing conflicts. Although the allegations remain unverified, Kanyuka emphasized the gravity of recent events in his announcement on social media.
Kanyuka acknowledged Angola’s invitation for direct negotiations, scheduled for Tuesday in Luanda. Angolan President Joao Lourenco urged a ceasefire effective from midnight Sunday; however, there has been no publicly forthcoming response from either party concerning this appeal. DRC President Felix Tshisekedi has been reluctant to engage with the M23, which has expanded its territory in eastern DRC this year with Rwandan military backing.
Despite Tshisekedi’s previous reluctance, his visit to Luanda led to the announcement of upcoming peace negotiations. Tina Salama, a spokesperson for Tshisekedi, confirmed that a DRC delegation would attend the talks in Luanda, although further details about the delegation or the likelihood of direct engagement remain unspecified. The DRC’s eastern cities, including Goma and Bukavu, have faced significant control shifts towards the M23 since January 2025, indicating a precarious situation over the region.
On another front, Rwanda announced a severance of diplomatic relations with Belgium due to accusations that Belgium has undermined its position amidst the DRC conflict. A statement from Rwanda’s foreign affairs ministry asserted that Belgium has persistently taken sides in the ongoing regional conflict, leading to the decision to expel all Belgian diplomats within 48 hours. Rwanda maintains that it faces threats from Hutu militants within DRC, despite international reports noting Rwandan military presence in support of the M23 group.
In summary, the M23 group has raised serious allegations against the DRC government, claiming military escalations to sabotage prospective peace talks. Angola is attempting to mediate dialogue aimed at ceasing hostilities, while Rwanda’s diplomatic tensions with Belgium have emerged against the backdrop of the conflict. The situation in eastern DRC remains volatile, with M23’s increasing territorial control highlighting the complexities of regional dynamics.
Original Source: jordantimes.com
