US doubts M23’s full withdrawal from key Congo town
The U.S. administration expressed dissatisfaction with the withdrawal of the M23 group from a strategic location in eastern Congo. Despite the group's pledge to withdraw from Uvira, near the Burundi border, following peace discussions, reports of ongoing…
The U.S. administration expressed dissatisfaction with the withdrawal of the M23 group from a strategic location in eastern Congo. Despite the group's pledge to withdraw from Uvira, near the Burundi border, following peace discussions, reports of ongoing clashes have emerged.
The M23 group's capture of Uvira on December 10 followed a meeting between Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi, Rwandan leader Paul Kagame, and then U.S. President Donald Trump, aimed at reinforcing a peace deal. The group's advance has raised concerns about regional instability, as the conflict has resulted in numerous casualties and displacements since January.
Although M23 announced a withdrawal, the U.S. remains skeptical about the completeness of this action. Reports indicate that some M23 operatives remain in Uvira, disguising themselves in police uniforms instead of military attire. Evidence of sporadic gunfire in certain neighborhoods further suggests ongoing tensions.
administration expressed dissatisfaction with the withdrawal of the M23 group from a strategic location in eastern Congo.
Both M23 and Congolese military forces have exchanged blame for the recent violence. Rwanda, accused of supporting M23, denies these claims and attributes the renewed conflict to Congolese and Burundian military actions. A United Nations report previously indicated Rwanda's potential influence over the rebel group.
The recent conflict has significantly affected the region's stability, with over 84,000 refugees fleeing to Burundi in the past month, according to the UN refugee agency. Additionally, approximately 500,000 individuals have been displaced in South Kivu province since early December. In response, the World Food Programme is enhancing its support for 210,000 vulnerable residents.
The economic repercussions of M23's activities have been notable, with the conflict impacting Congo's GDP and leading to increased security expenditures. The International Monetary Fund has highlighted potential long-term effects on the country's growth and development if the insecurity persists.
Based on reporting by Africanews.
