A coalition of rebel groups operating in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), including the Rwanda-backed M23 rebels, has announced a humanitarian ceasefire set to take effect on Tuesday.
In a statement, the alliance—known as the Congo River Alliance—said the ceasefire was being declared for “humanitarian reasons” following its recent territorial gains in the region.
The United Nations reports that at least 900 people have been killed and 2,880 injured in the ongoing conflict around Goma, the largest city in eastern DRC, which has come under rebel control.
The offensive has drawn strong condemnation from the G7 nations and the European Union, which have described it as a blatant violation of DRC’s sovereignty.
Meanwhile, the rebel alliance has accused the Congolese military of targeting civilians, claiming the army has been using airstrikes to bomb areas under its control.
Despite previously indicating plans to expand its reach, the group now asserts that it will hold its current positions.
“We reiterate our commitment to protecting and defending the civilian population and our positions,” the alliance stated.
Over the past three years, persistent fighting in the region has displaced hundreds of thousands, with the UN refugee agency estimating that more than 400,000 people have been forced from their homes since the beginning of 2025 alone.
Rwandan President Paul Kagame, when questioned about his country’s alleged military presence in DRC, responded ambiguously.
“There are many things I don’t know. But if you want to ask me, is there a problem in Congo that concerns Rwanda? And that Rwanda would do anything to protect itself? I’d say 100%,” he told CNN.
Human rights organizations continue to push for increased international pressure on Rwanda to withdraw support for the rebels. DRC’s Communications Minister, Patrick Muyaya, has called for sanctions against Rwanda, urging the global community to take firm action.
“A strong decision (must be taken) not only to condemn, but to stop what Rwanda is doing, because it is not acceptable if you want to preserve peace in Africa and in our region,” Muyaya told Reuters, adding that “sanctions are the minimum.”
Both Congolese President Félix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Kagame are expected to attend a regional peace summit in Tanzania on Friday.
With decades of conflict behind them and multiple failed negotiations over the past year, any new talks could stretch on for months—if they do not collapse once again.
Source-BBC
