DRC- The Belgian government has deployed troops to the restive eastern Democratic Republic of Congo in what is officially described as a joint military training operation with Congolese forces.
According to media reports from the region, the deployment is estimated to involve between 300 and 400 soldiers, is reportedly supported by tanks and drones.
However, the M23 rebels have accused Belgium of not only meddling in Congolese national affairs but also seeking to engage alongside the Wazalendo militia and the FDLR, an armed group largely responsible for the 1994 genocide in Rwanda.
While the Belgian presence is officially for training purposes, the Belgian commandos are now expected to directly engage with the M23 rebels alongside the Congolese army coalition.
This coalition has already suffered significant losses in the Eastern region, despite receiving support from foreign troops, including well-paid European mercenaries based at Lwama Camp in Kindu, the capital of Maniema Province.
