Despite peace deal: death toll rises after escalation in eastern DR Congo
More than 400 civilians have been reported killed due to escalated activities by the M23 armed group in South Kivu province, eastern Congo. Regional authorities have confirmed the presence of Rwandan special forces in the strategic city of Uvira.
More than 400 civilians have been reported killed due to escalated activities by the M23 armed group in South Kivu province, eastern Congo. Regional authorities have confirmed the presence of Rwandan special forces in the strategic city of Uvira.
The current offensive by M23 occurs despite a recent US-mediated peace agreement between the Congolese and Rwandan presidents. This agreement, which did not include M23, obliges Rwanda to cease support for armed groups and work towards ending hostilities. Both sides have accused each other of violating a previously agreed ceasefire.
The South Kivu government spokesperson reported that "more than 413 civilians have been killed by bullets, grenades, and bombs, including many women, children, and young people" in areas between Uvira and Bukavu.
According to gathered information, the forces in Uvira comprise Rwandan special forces and foreign mercenaries, allegedly violating the ceasefire and previous agreements.
M23's spokesperson announced the group's control over Uvira, an important port city on Lake Tanganyika, following a rapid offensive. Uvira's strategic position directly impacts neighboring Burundi’s largest city, Bujumbura. The United Nations and other officials accuse Rwanda of supporting M23, which now reportedly has around 6,500 fighters.
More than 400 civilians have been reported killed due to escalated activities by the M23 armed group in South Kivu province, eastern Congo.
Burundian Foreign Minister Edouard Bizimana urged the US to pressure Rwanda to implement the agreement. He highlighted the threat to Bujumbura, noting that over 30,000 refugees have fled during recent escalations.
On Dec. 11, 2025, M23's spokesperson stated that Burundian forces had repositioned, with some returning to their territory and others remaining in the highlands. He reported renewed violence against civilians in Minembwe.
International Reactions and Mineral-rich Territory
The US Embassy in Kinshasa has called for M23 and Rwandan troops to cease operations and for Rwandan forces to withdraw. Rwanda has accused Congo of violating the ceasefire and fighting to regain lost territories.
Over 100 armed groups are competing for control in mineral-rich eastern Congo, contributing to a significant humanitarian crisis. More than 7 million people have been displaced, with local UN partners reporting over 200,000 displacements since Dec. 2.
The conflict has also led to civilian movements into Burundi, with reports of shelling near the border town of Rugombo, raising concerns about the conflict's regional implications.
Based on reporting by Africanews.
