Rwanda-backed M23 rebels have pulled out of peace talks with the Democratic Republic of Congo’s government, citing European Union sanctions imposed on the rebel group and Rwandan officials.
The EU sanctions, announced on Monday, targeted the M23’s political leader and the head of Rwanda’s minerals board, among others.
The M23 rebels accused the EU of obstructing peace talks, which were scheduled to take place in Angola.
The Congo River Alliance, representing the M23, stated that the EU’s actions were aimed at “obstructing the much-anticipated talks”.
The conflict in eastern Congo has escalated since January, with M23 fighters capturing key cities and thousands of people killed or displaced.
The EU sanctions are seen as a significant move to pressure Rwanda, which is accused of supporting the M23 rebels.
In response to the sanctions, Rwanda severed diplomatic ties with Belgium, which had called for strong EU action against Kigali.
The move has been described as “disproportionate” by Belgium’s Foreign Affairs Minister.
