Burundi has begun pulling its forces from eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, where they had been aiding the Congolese army in its fight against the advancing M23 rebels, according to multiple sources.
However, a spokesperson for Burundi’s military dismissed these reports as “fake,” asserting on X that their forces remain committed to their mission in Congo.
The withdrawal comes at a critical moment, as the United Nations has accused M23 of executing children amid their expansion.
The rebel group recently captured Bukavu, the capital of South Kivu province, following their takeover of Goma in January.
According to sources, Burundian troops were seen returning through a border post, a claim corroborated by a Burundian military officer, two UN officials, and an African diplomat.
These forces had been assisting in the defense of Kavumu, an area crucial for Bukavu’s airport operations, before its fall over the weekend.
Burundi has maintained a military presence in eastern Congo for years, initially targeting Burundian rebel groups but later joining the fight against M23.
The Tutsi-led insurgents, well-equipped and battle-hardened, have continued their southward advance, with reports indicating they entered Kamanyola, a town 50 kilometers from Bukavu.
Meanwhile, clashes between M23 and the Congolese army were also reported in Lubero, north of Goma.
