The peace talks between Rwanda and the DRC have been called off by the Angolan presidency, following a deadlock over Rwanda’s demand for direct dialogue with M23 rebels. Recent fighting has resulted in civilian casualties, and the region faces a severe humanitarian crisis, with millions displaced due to ongoing conflict.
Peace talks aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) have faced a significant setback, as Angola, the mediator in the discussions, announced the cancellation of the meeting scheduled for Sunday. Angolan President Joao Lourenco had initially planned to engage in discussions with DRC President Felix Tshisekedi; however, it remains unclear if Rwandan President Paul Kagame was present in Angola.
Tensions between the two countries have escalated, particularly over a Rwandan request for direct negotiations between the DRC and the M23 rebel group, which the DRC government and the United Nations allege is supported by Rwanda. Recent fighting has intensified, with the DRC army accusing M23 of civilian casualties, a claim that the group vehemently denies.
The conflict in eastern DRC, driven by numerous armed groups vying for control of the region’s lucrative mineral resources, has led to a severe humanitarian crisis, displacing over seven million people. Despite Rwanda’s denial of support for M23, a UN report suggests a significant deployment of Rwandan troops within DRC, raising concerns about ongoing hostilities despite prior ceasefire agreements.
The conflict in eastern DRC has deep historical roots, often involving various armed groups and external influences, particularly from neighboring Rwanda. The M23 rebel group has claimed territory in the region, leading to accusations of Rwandan support, which Rwanda has consistently denied. Negotiations mediated by Angola aimed to address these tensions, yet the insistence from Rwanda for dialogue with the M23 has complicated matters. The humanitarian consequences have been dire, with millions displaced and in need of assistance as fighting continues intermittently despite ceasefire attempts.
The recent cancellation of peace talks between Rwanda and the DRC highlights the persistent challenges in resolving the conflict in eastern DRC. With both sides failing to reach an agreement, the humanitarian situation continues to deteriorate, and the cycle of violence persists. Continued mediation efforts and a commitment to dialogue remain critical in addressing the underlying issues of the conflict and providing relief to the affected populations.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
