The Rwanda-backed M23 militia has exited peace negotiations with the DRC after the EU sanctioned rebel leaders. This withdrawal occurred just ahead of scheduled discussions on a ceasefire amid a severe humanitarian crisis in the country. The EU also imposed sanctions on Rwanda, leading to its diplomatic break with Belgium.
The M23 rebel group, which is said to be supported by Rwanda, has withdrawn from peace negotiations with the Democratic Republic of Congo following the imposition of sanctions by the European Union. This decision was made shortly before M23 leaders were scheduled to meet with DRC officials to negotiate a ceasefire amidst an ongoing conflict that has resulted in significant humanitarian distress, with numerous fatalities and millions of individuals displaced.
In addition to sanctions on the M23 leaders, the EU also targeted Rwanda, a nation accused by several Western countries of financially supporting the militia, an allegation that the Rwandan government vehemently denies. In reaction to the EU’s sanctions, Rwanda severed its diplomatic relations with Belgium, which it accused of instigating calls for these punitive measures.
The cessation of peace talks by the M23 rebels highlights the complexities surrounding the DRC conflict, exacerbated by the recently imposed EU sanctions. With Rwanda’s withdrawal from dialogue and the severance of diplomatic ties with Belgium, the situation remains precarious, escalating the humanitarian crisis in the region.
Original Source: www.semafor.com
