UN Withdrawal Begins

UN peacekeepers began a long-planned withdrawal from the Democratic Republic of Congo in mid-June, in a symbolic move timed to coincide with the celebration of the 50th anniversary of the country's independence from Belgium. This first step will be followed by the withdrawal of 1,900 more troops, reducing the total number of peacekeepers to 19,000 by July 1. Although the government had previously asked for a complete removal of UN troops by 2011, its inability to ensure the security of residents in the East has led it reconsider this initial demand.

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