Burundi has accelerated troop withdrawal from DR Congo due to a refugee influx, the largest in 25 years. The M23, backed by Rwanda, has gained ground in eastern Congo, raising concerns about regional conflict. Thousands are fleeing into Burundi, facing dire humanitarian conditions. The UN warns of escalating threats, echoing the legacy of past wars in the region.
Burundi has intensified the withdrawal of its troops from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) amid an alarming influx of refugees, the largest in 25 years, according to United Nations reports. This move comes as Rwandan-backed M23 fighters have made significant territorial gains in eastern Congo, including seizing cities like Goma and Bukavu. The ongoing conflict has prompted urgent warnings from the UN Security Council about a possible regional escalation.
A senior Burundian military officer disclosed that the army commenced a swift extraction of troops from the Rusizi plain, although the number of soldiers withdrawn remains unspecified. He noted that it was necessary to send a battalion to facilitate the safe exit of soldiers from South Kivu. Burundi had previously deployed over 10,000 soldiers to assist the Congolese army against armed groups, but critical supply shortages have been reported, complicating their operational effectiveness.
Reports indicate that a significant number of refugees are currently seeking shelter in Burundi, marking the worst influx since the early 2000s. Brigitte Mukanga-Eno of the UNHCR stated that approximately 30,000 individuals have crossed the border due to escalating violence following the M23’s advance toward Bukavu. Daily arrivals continue to swell the numbers reaching safety in Burundi, with many fleeing armed attacks.
Many refugees, like Kitenge, are escaping life-threatening situations, describing scenes of violence and chaos that compelled their flight. One elderly woman shared that refugees lack basic necessities, revealing their struggle for food and shelter. “We have not had anything to eat,” she lamented, highlighting the dire conditions faced by those who have fled conflict.
Burundi’s Interior Minister Martin Niteretse announced plans to relocate refugees for their safety and grant them refugee status. The UNHCR had already acknowledged that Burundi was providing sanctuary for approximately 90,000 people who had previously fled violence in the DRC. Meanwhile, Congolese soldiers and police were reported disarmed after arriving at the border town of Gatumba, emphasizing the ongoing security crisis.
Bintou Keita, the head of the UN’s peacekeeping mission in the DRC, voiced concerns about M23’s advance towards critical border regions. Huang Xia, the UN Secretary-General’s special envoy for the Great Lakes, warned that the risk of a regional conflict is heightened, as military movements escalate. The situation is reminiscent of the Second Congo War, which horrifically impacted multiple nations and resulted in significant human tragedy.
In response to the crisis, the United States has imposed sanctions on Rwandan minister James Kabarebe due to his alleged support for the M23. Rwanda has refuted claims of involvement in the conflict, citing threats posed by ethnic Hutu groups operating from Congo. The situation remains fluid, with ongoing international ramifications as regional tensions mount.
In summary, as Burundi withdraws its troops from the DRC amid increasing M23 advances, the country faces an unprecedented surge of refugees, prompting urgent humanitarian responses. The UN warns of rising regional threats, echoing historical conflicts that resulted in widespread suffering. The situation necessitates significant attention and coordinated action to prevent further deterioration and protect vulnerable populations.
Original Source: thedefensepost.com
