East DRC conflict persists one year after DRC-Rwanda peace deal

One year after the landmark peace agreement between the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Rwanda, the eastern provinces of the DRC remain trapped in a dangerous stalemate. The ceasefire, brokered in Washington with the support of the United States, was meant to end the resurgence of violence involving the March 23 Movement (M23) rebels, who are accused of receiving military backing from Kigali.

Despite the accord signed on June 27, 2025, the situation has failed to improve. Clashes between Kinshasa’s forces and the M23 have intensified, particularly amid the ongoing Ebola crisis. The rebel group continues to hold key territories, while sporadic gunfire and ceasefire violations occur on both sides.

Washington talks yield temporary truce, but tensions remain

Negotiations between the Congolese government and the M23’s political wing, the Congo River Alliance, began in Doha in April 2025 under Qatari mediation. Meanwhile, the United States spearheaded separate peace talks between the DRC and Rwanda, culminating in the Washington agreement. However, the deal has done little to shift the balance of power on the ground.

According to political analyst Bob Kabamba from the University of Liège, the M23 has maintained its military advantage. “The rebels still control the territories they seized, and both sides are engaging in ceasefire breaches,” he explains. “The M23 continues to recruit fighters, reinforcing its position. The current military dynamics will shape future negotiations.”

With no clear path to de-escalation, civilians in North Kivu and Ituri face continued displacement, violence, and humanitarian crises. The stalled peace process leaves little room for optimism as the conflict shows no signs of resolution.