Clashes between the Congolese army and the M23 rebel group have resumed in eastern Congo, marking another breach of the ceasefire ahead of anticipated mediation talks.
The Congolese army reported heavy losses inflicted on the rebels in the Lubero territory of North Kivu province, with both dead and wounded among the M23 ranks. An M23 spokesperson confirmed that the group was also attacked by government forces early Tuesday.
M23 is among over 100 armed groups competing for control in the mineral-rich eastern region near the Rwandan border, contributing to one of the world’s largest humanitarian crises, with more than 7 million people displaced. The Congolese government and the United Nations have accused Rwanda of supporting M23, a claim that Rwanda denies. However, Rwanda has acknowledged the presence of its troops and missile systems in eastern Congo to protect its security, citing a buildup of Congolese forces near the border. UN experts estimate that up to 4,000 Rwandan troops are currently in Congo.
Last week, the foreign ministers of Congo and Rwanda reached an agreement regarding the withdrawal of Rwandan forces from eastern Congo. Although a ceasefire was signed between Congo and M23 in July, which took effect in August, hostilities have resumed.
The renewed fighting coincides with an upcoming meeting between Congo’s President Felix Tshisekedi and Rwanda’s President Paul Kagame, scheduled for December 15. This will be their first official meeting since last year, with Angola mediating the ongoing conflict. The United States has expressed grave concern over the violations of the ceasefire by M23 rebels, highlighting the urgency of resolving this escalating crisis.
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