The M23 rebels have withdrawn from peace talks with the DRC government after EU sanctions were imposed against them and Rwandan officials. The withdrawal complicates the already tense situation in eastern Congo, where the conflict has claimed thousands of lives and displaced many more. The sanctions underscore the role of natural resources in the conflict and have led to deteriorating diplomatic relations between Rwanda and Belgium.
On Monday, the Rwanda-backed M23 rebels withdrew from peace talks with the Democratic Republic of Congo’s government, just a day prior to scheduled negotiations in Angola. Their decision followed the imposition of European Union sanctions against M23 and certain Rwandan officials. The Congo River Alliance condemned these sanctions, claiming they aimed at obstructing the anticipated discussions.
The M23, which has consistently sought direct talks with Kinshasa, faced rejection from President Felix Tshisekedi, who regards the group as a mere proxy for Rwanda. However, he altered his stance on Sunday and agreed to send a delegation to Luanda after experiencing battlefield losses and with encouragement from Angola.
Tina Salama, spokesperson for President Tshisekedi, affirmed that the government delegation would proceed to Luanda despite the M23’s withdrawal, stating, “We confirm our participation at the invitation of the mediators.”
The ongoing conflict, exacerbated since January, is deeply rooted in the repercussions of Rwanda’s 1994 genocide and competition for mineral wealth. M23 forces have overtaken two major cities in eastern Congo, resulting in thousands of casualties and displacing numerous families.
Accusations have surfaced regarding Rwanda’s support for the M23 with arms and personnel. In response, Rwanda claims its military actions are defensive against hostile militias and the Congolese army. The recent EU sanctions are unprecedented against M23 and Rwanda since the rebels intensified their campaign earlier this year.
Zobel Behalal, a senior expert from the Global Initiative against Transnational Organized Crime, stated that the sanctions target Rwanda’s mining sector, indicating that profits from natural resources significantly motivate Rwanda’s involvement in this conflict. The M23 expressed that international actions reflect an “incomprehensible and ambiguous stance” that hampers dialogue and progress.
Additionally, relations between Rwanda and Belgium have soured, as Rwanda expelled Belgian diplomats over Belgium’s advocacy for rigorous EU actions against Rwanda. Belgium’s Foreign Affairs Minister labeled Rwanda’s actions as “disproportionate.”
In summary, the M23 rebels have withdrawn from crucial peace negotiations with the Democratic Republic of Congo, citing EU sanctions as a significant hindrance. The conflict continues to escalate, with both local and international ramifications influenced by historical relations and resource competition. As diplomatic tensions rise, particularly between Rwanda and Belgium, the prospect for resolution appears increasingly uncertain.
Original Source: www.straitstimes.com
