The United States has strongly condemned the continued violations of the ceasefire in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) by the M23 armed group, which is reportedly backed by Rwanda. The M23’s recent military advances, including the capture of Masisi town, have undermined peace efforts in the region and resulted in further suffering and displacement of civilians. Washington has called for an immediate cessation of hostilities by the M23 and reiterated its longstanding demand for Rwanda to withdraw all its military personnel and equipment from the DRC.
In a press statement issued by U.S. State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller, the U.S. expressed deep concern over the recent escalation of violence in the eastern DRC, a region already ravaged by years of conflict. Miller stressed that these actions by the M23 not only harm efforts to negotiate a lasting peace but also put civilians at even greater risk, further complicating the already fragile humanitarian situation.
Escalating Violence and Humanitarian Impact
The capture of Masisi, a key town in North Kivu province, represents a significant setback in the peace process. The M23’s advance in the region follows a pattern of aggressive tactics that include attacks on civilians, forced displacement, and the disruption of critical humanitarian aid efforts. Reports indicate that thousands of civilians have been forced to flee their homes in the wake of the fighting, many seeking refuge in neighboring towns and countries.
The ongoing violence exacerbates an already dire humanitarian crisis in the eastern DRC, where millions of people have been affected by years of conflict and instability. More than 5 million people are currently displaced in the country, with many of them in desperate need of food, shelter, and medical care. The U.S. has called on all parties to uphold their commitments under international law to protect civilians and ensure that humanitarian assistance can reach those in need.
Calls for Accountability and Ceasefire Compliance
The U.S. government has once again demanded that the M23 immediately cease hostilities and adhere to the terms of the ceasefire agreement, which was brokered to facilitate dialogue and peace. “The M23 must halt its offensive and comply with the ceasefire to allow for meaningful negotiations to take place,” Miller said in the statement. The U.S. also reaffirmed its support for the Angola-mediated Luanda Process, a key diplomatic initiative aimed at resolving the crisis and bringing about a peaceful settlement between the DRC and Rwanda.
The Luanda Process—which includes both diplomatic and security-related measures—was designed to reduce tensions and build trust between the two countries, but its success hinges on full compliance by all parties. Washington has emphasized the need for the reinforced ad hoc verification mechanism to be fully operational, which would help monitor the implementation of ceasefire terms and ensure accountability.
Urging Rwanda to Withdraw Troops
In addition to condemning the actions of the M23, the U.S. reiterated its call for Rwanda to withdraw its Rwanda Defense Force (RDF) personnel and equipment from the DRC. Rwanda’s support for the M23 has been a longstanding point of contention in the region, and the U.S. has consistently urged Rwanda to cease its involvement in the conflict. The presence of Rwandan troops in eastern DRC complicates the already volatile situation and is viewed as a significant obstacle to peace.
The U.S. government’s statement follows mounting international pressure on Rwanda to uphold its commitments under international law, which include respecting the sovereignty of its neighbors and refraining from using proxy forces to further its interests. Rwanda has denied supporting the M23, despite extensive evidence of its involvement.
A Fragile Peace Process
The ongoing conflict in the eastern DRC is part of a broader regional struggle involving multiple armed groups, local militias, and foreign actors. Despite international efforts to broker peace, the region remains plagued by instability, with fighting continuing to affect civilians, hinder development, and fuel further unrest.
The U.S. government has stressed that the only way to end the conflict and alleviate the suffering of millions is through dialogue, respect for ceasefire agreements, and a commitment to long-term peace. Washington has pledged to continue working with the UN, African Union, and other international partners to support the DRC and regional stability.
“We stand with the people of the DRC in their pursuit of peace, security, and justice,” Miller concluded. “It is critical that all parties abide by their commitments, and that the international community remains united in its support for a lasting and comprehensive peace in the region.”
The situation in eastern DRC continues to evolve, and it remains unclear how quickly the ceasefire violations can be brought under control. However, with mounting international pressure and the renewed focus on the Luanda Process, there is hope that a resolution can eventually be found to end the conflict and rebuild trust between the DRC and Rwanda.