The EU condemns the M23 group’s occupation of Masisi in North Kivu, viewing it as a serious violation of the Luanda ceasefire. The Union insists on the need for M23 to withdraw and for Rwanda to end its support for the group. Reaffirming its commitment to the Luanda process, the EU is ready to consider further sanctions against those sustaining conflict in the DRC.
The European Union (EU) has strongly denounced the seizure of Masisi and nearby areas in North Kivu by the armed group M23, describing it as a blatant breach of the ceasefire established through the Luanda process. The EU asserts that this recent escalation severely jeopardizes efforts aimed at achieving a peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The EU calls for the immediate withdrawal of M23 and urges Rwanda to terminate its support and military presence in the DRC, stressing the necessity for all conflict parties to de-escalate tensions and adhere to the commitments made in the Luanda agreements. Furthermore, the EU is prepared to implement additional restrictive measures against those perpetuating instability and violence in the region.
Recent developments in eastern DRC, particularly with the M23 group’s actions in North Kivu, have raised significant international concerns regarding the ongoing conflict. The Luanda process is a diplomatic initiative aimed at establishing peace and security in the region, yet violations such as those by M23 threaten these efforts. The involvement of neighboring countries, notably Rwanda, and regional armed groups significantly complicates the situation, necessitating concerted action from the international community to restore peace.
The EU’s unequivocal condemnation of M23’s actions highlights the urgent need for all parties involved in the DRC conflict to abide by previous agreements and pursue a collective path towards peace. The call for Rwanda to withdraw its forces and the potential for new EU sanctions underscore the seriousness of the situation. Continued cooperation among international stakeholders remains crucial for achieving lasting stability in the DRC.
Original Source: www.africa.com
