By Our Reporter
Belgium has deployed troops to eastern DR Congo for a military training operation, officially aimed at assisting Congolese forces. The troops will train Congolese military instructors from the 31st Brigade of the Rapid Reaction Units.
The Belgian deployment, estimated to involve between 300 and 400 soldiers, is reportedly supported by tanks and drones. This move has sparked speculation about Belgium’s deeper involvement in the ongoing conflict.
While Belgium insists its presence is purely for training, the M23 rebels accuse the country of backing the Wazalendo militia and the FDLR, a group linked to the 1994 Rwandan genocide.
Belgian commandos are expected to engage alongside the Congolese army coalition against M23 rebels. This coalition has suffered heavy losses despite receiving support from foreign troops and highly paid European mercenaries.
Before this deployment, Belgian-trained Congolese units operated between 2008 and 2017. Reports indicate that Belgium recently secured €20 million from the EU to restore the 31st URR Brigade’s infrastructure.
On March 17, flight tracking data showed a Belgian Air Force Falcon jet departing Belgium for Kinshasa. The next day, it stopped at Kindu Airport before returning to Belgium on March 20.
Belgium has been a vocal supporter of DR Congo within the EU, actively lobbying for sanctions against Rwanda. Last week, Rwanda expelled Belgian envoys, citing interference in Congolese internal affairs.
Despite tensions, Rwanda and DR Congo recently made diplomatic progress. Presidents Paul Kagame and Felix Tshisekedi met in Doha, Qatar, agreeing to a ceasefire and a framework for peace negotiations.
The Luanda Peace Process officially concluded on March 24, transitioning mediation efforts to former African presidents. Both the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and the East African Community (EAC) remain involved.
With Belgium’s military involvement raising concerns, regional stability hangs in the balance. Observers worry that foreign interventions may escalate tensions rather than promote a lasting peace in eastern DR Congo.
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