After the United States and France, it is now the turn of the European Union to denounce Rwanda’s support for the M23 armed group which is active in the east of the Democratic Republic of Congo. In a press release on Monday March 4, 2024, the EU said it was extremely concerned by the escalation of violence in this region and the worsening humanitarian situation.
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In his press releasethe European Union is concerned about the military escalation in recent months in North Kivu, in particular the use of anti-aircraft missiles by the rebels of M23 and combat drones of the Congolese army.
The EU condemns the latest offensive by the M23 rebels around Sake and Goma. And recalls that States have an obligation to cease their support for different armed groups. The organization condemns the support of Rwanda at M23. But above all, for the first time, she urges Kigali to immediately withdraw its military personnel from the DRC. While at the same time calling on Kinshasa and all regional actors to end their support for the FDLR.
There is no military solution, indicates the EU, which reaffirms its support for the Luanda and Nairobi processes which should lead to a political dialogue between the DRC and Rwanda. This declaration comes two weeks after those of the United States and France which for the first time asked Rwanda to withdraw its troops from Congolese soil. A de facto recognition of the Rwandan military presence in the DRC.
It also comes at a time when the European Union is being widely criticized for having concluded an agreement cooperation on raw materials with Rwanda.