The M23 rebels have withdrawn from upcoming peace talks in Angola with the DRC government, citing EU sanctions against them and Rwandan officials as a reason. The Congo River Alliance, which M23 belongs to, claims these sanctions obstruct the negotiation process.

On March 17, 2025, the Rwanda-supported M23 rebels announced their withdrawal from scheduled peace talks in Angola with the government of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). These negotiations were intended to address the ongoing conflict in eastern Congo, where violence and instability have persisted for years. The rebels cited their decision to pull out as a response to newly imposed sanctions by the European Union targeting M23 and Rwandan officials, which they claim are obstructive to the peace process. The Congo River Alliance, which includes M23, stated that these sanctions directly affected the anticipated negotiations, highlighting the ongoing complexities in achieving peace in the region.

In conclusion, the withdrawal of the M23 rebels from peace talks highlights the challenges faced in finding resolutions to the conflict in eastern Congo. The recent EU sanctions, perceived as obstructive by the rebels, further complicate an already turbulent situation, underscoring the fragile nature of peace negotiations in the region.

Original Source: www.dw.com