‘Peace prospects dire’: More tensions as M23 fights on in DRC despite deal

Despite a peace deal brokered by Qatar in November 2025 between the M23 rebel group and the Democratic Republic of Congo's (DRC) government, fighting has continued, dashing hopes for a lasting ceasefire. The M23, allegedly backed by Rwanda, launched a new offensive in December, seizing the strategic city of Uvira. The conflict, ongoing since late 2021, has displaced nearly a million people and resulted in approximately 7,000 deaths this year alone. Analysts like Hubert Masomera suggest a lack of genuine commitment from both sides to end the conflict. Concerns are growing that the violence could escalate into a regional conflict, given the DRC's history of civil wars involving neighboring countries. The renewed fighting underscores the dire prospects for peace in the region.

The US has accused Rwanda of violating a US-brokered peace agreement by supporting the M23 rebels' offensive in eastern Congo. US Ambassador Mike Waltz stated the US is "profoundly concerned" and warned of actions against those destabilizing peace. The M23 rebels have escalated attacks in Congo's South Kivu province, resulting in over 400 civilian deaths and the capture of the strategic city of Uvira. This offensive, despite a recent peace accord, has heightened regional instability and fears of a broader conflict, especially with Burundi's troops already present in the area. The US is urging restraint from all parties and engaging in diplomatic efforts to prevent further escalation.

A peace deal brokered by the U.S. between the Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda is faltering after the M23 rebel group seized the key city of Uvira in eastern DR Congo. The US ambassador to the UN has accused Rwanda of escalating conflict in the region. Despite Rwanda's denial, the US and European powers accuse Rwanda of backing the M23 offensive. The M23 rebels were not signatories to the US-brokered deal, instead participating in a separate peace process led by Qatar. Analysts suggest the M23's actions are aimed at gaining leverage in negotiations and forcing Burundi to withdraw troops from the region. The seizure of Uvira, strategically important due to its proximity to Burundi and the presence of Burundian troops, undermines ongoing negotiations and risks further escalating the conflict.