The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has formally requested military assistance from Chad to counter the escalating threat posed by Rwanda-backed M23 rebels in its eastern provinces, sources within both Governments revealed on Wednesday February 19. A high-level meeting took place between Congo’s Minister of Regional Integration and Chad’s President Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno in the capital on Tuesday, representing Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi. The meeting, however, has kept the details of the discussions confidential, and no official stance has yet been taken by Chad on the request for military aid.
Chad is reportedly weighing the request for support, but a decision has yet to be reached. Sources familiar with the situation suggest that Congo’s appeal was both military and diplomatic in nature, though no further specifics have been disclosed. As the violence from the M23 rebels intensifies, the Congolese government has sought external assistance to strengthen its defences and protect civilians in the conflict zones. However, the response from Chad has been cautious, with government spokespeople refraining from commenting on the matter.
Despite ongoing speculation, Chad’s Foreign Affairs Minister recently dismissed the notion of sending military support to Congo as “pure speculation,” indicating that any involvement is far from certain. Meanwhile, Congo’s government spokesperson Tina Salama confirmed she had no additional information on the discussions, leaving the situation uncertain. The outcome of this request could significantly influence regional dynamics, particularly given Chad’s strategic position in Central Africa and its historical involvement in regional peacekeeping efforts.