Rwanda accuses Burundian troops of engaging in fighting with M23

Rwanda has accused Burundian troops of directly engaging in combat against the M23 rebel group in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

This accusation comes amid escalating tensions and a warning from Burundi’s president that the conflict could ignite a regional war.

The M23, a Rwanda-backed rebel group, recently captured the city of Goma, further destabilizing the region.

Burundian President Evariste Ndayishimiye expressed grave concerns, stating that the ongoing conflict poses a significant threat to regional stability and could potentially escalate into a wider war.

Rwanda’s Foreign Minister, Olivier Nduhungirehe, publicly stated on social media platform X that Burundian forces have been actively involved in combat operations against the M23 since October 2023.

This assertion follows reports from a Burundian military source confirming the presence of over 10,000 Burundian troops deployed in eastern DRC as part of a regional peacekeeping force.

President Ndayishimiye issued a stern warning, accusing Rwanda of preparing for aggression against Burundi and vowing to prevent any such actions.

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