EU Ambassador Urges Rwanda to Withdraw Troops from DRC
Nicolas Berlanga, the European Union Ambassador to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), reiterated the EU’s condemnation of any support provided by Rwanda to the M23 rebels during Europe Day celebrations. Speaking to the press on May 9, Berlanga called for Rwandan troops to vacate Congolese territory.
Expressing solidarity with the EU’s stance, Berlanga condemned the M23 offensive and Rwanda’s backing of the rebel group, stressing the imperative need for the withdrawal of Rwandan military forces from Congolese soil.
Rejecting a military resolution to the conflict in eastern DRC, Berlanga emphasized the importance of a political dialogue to bring Rwanda and the DRC together for resolution. He advocated for diplomatic efforts under African auspices, particularly involving Angola.
Despite ongoing military efforts and the declaration of a state of siege, insecurity persists in eastern DRC, exacerbated by the resurgence of M23 rebels supported by Rwanda in North Kivu province.
Regional initiatives have yet to yield significant progress, leaving areas like Masisi, Rutshuru, and Nyiragongo under the control of M23 rebels backed by the Rwandan regime.
