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A recent military parade in eastern Congo is casting serious doubt on an impending peace deal between Kinshasa and the Rwanda-backed M23 rebel group. The rebels showcased over 7,000 recruits in Goma, a brazen show of force that contradicts the spirit of ongoing negotiations. This display severely dampens hopes for a resolution and suggests the group is entrenching its occupation rather than preparing to disarm. The agreement, expected to be signed in Washington, centers on Rwanda withdrawing its support and M23 conceding territory. Following the parade, it now faces a major credibility crisis. This escalation deepens the devastating humanitarian emergency in the country, one of the worst in the world. The parade signals that, despite diplomatic efforts, a peaceful resolution remains frustratingly distant for weary civilians.
AP