20/07/2023 (Agence Europe) – On Thursday 20 July, the Council adopted an assistance measure worth €20 million, under the European Peace Facility, to support the 31st Rapid Reaction Brigade of the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (FARDC). This support will be implemented by the Belgian Ministry of Defence, which is training this brigade active in Eastern DRC. The EU’s support will strengthen its capabilities and resilience in a region marked by the presence of around a hundred armed groups, according to the Council. The EU will provide basic non-lethal individual equipment, such as commando kits, first aid kits and clothing, and collective equipment, including counter-IED kits, vehicles and radios. The aid measure will also support the refurbishment of the brigade’s headquarters. (CG)