M23 Captures Hundreds of Burundian Soldiers Amid Ongoing Conflict in Eastern Congo

The M23 rebel group, reportedly backed by Rwanda, has claimed to capture hundreds of Burundian soldiers during its latest offensive in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). This escalation follows the M23's entry into the strategic town of Uvira, located near the border with Burundi, shortly after a meeting between the presidents of DRC and Rwanda with U.S. President Donald Trump, where they reaffirmed their commitment to the Washington Accords peace deal.

M23 claims to have captured Burundi troops in Uvira offensiveThe Straits TimesFighting in Congo: M23 group claims capture of hundreds of Burundian soldiers

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has condemned Rwanda's actions in eastern Congo as violations of the Washington Accords, promising to take action to uphold the commitments made during the meeting. Despite these accusations, Rwanda denies any support for the M23 and has instead blamed Congolese and Burundian forces for the renewed violence. A United Nations report from July indicated that Rwanda exercises command over the M23 rebels.

M23 claims to have captured Burundi troops in Uvira offensiveFighting in Congo: M23 group claims capture of hundreds of Burundian soldiersThe Straits Times

Patrick Busu Bwa Ngwi, the M23-appointed governor of South Kivu province, stated, "We have several hundred Burundian soldiers with us whom we captured during combat, and we intend to return them home." He emphasized that Burundi should formally request the return of its soldiers and insisted that all Burundian forces should leave M23-controlled territory.

Fighting in Congo: M23 group claims capture of hundreds of Burundian soldiersReutersThe Straits Times

The ongoing conflict has led to significant humanitarian concerns. Global charity Médecins Sans Frontières (Doctors Without Borders) announced the suspension of its activities in Baraka, approximately 100 km south of Uvira, due to escalating violence and threats posed by the conflict. Local officials have reported that Congolese military forces are reorganizing after withdrawing from Makobola, 12 km south of Uvira, in an effort to reclaim lost territory.

The Straits TimesReuters

Burundi's government has not yet responded to the M23's claims regarding the captured soldiers. However, the situation has raised alarms within Burundi, with President Évariste Ndayishimiye warning of consequences if M23 attacks Burundian forces. This reflects a broader concern about the implications of the conflict for regional stability.

Fighting in Congo: M23 group claims capture of hundreds of Burundian soldiers

While the M23 claims to have captured hundreds of Burundian soldiers, these allegations have not been independently verified. Reports indicate that thousands of Burundian soldiers have been granted a safe corridor to return home, suggesting a complex and fluid situation on the ground. The lack of an official response from Burundi further complicates the narrative.

Fighting in Congo: M23 group claims capture of hundreds of Burundian soldiers

The situation remains tense as the M23 continues its offensive, and the international community watches closely for developments. The potential for further military engagement and the humanitarian crisis in the region could escalate if diplomatic efforts fail to stabilize the conflict.

Reuters