The M23 rebel group has declared a ceasefire starting February 4, 2025. They cited humanitarian concerns amid clashes with the DR Congo army (FARDC).
M23 condemned the government for a worsening crisis. They criticized FARDC's use of Kavumu Airport to bomb M23-held areas.
The group denied plans to take Bukavu city. They said their focus is defending civilians and territory.
Last weekend, M23's political head said they would march to Kinshasa "until all of DR Congo is liberated." The government vowed to remove the rebels from North Kivu.
M23 called for the withdrawal of a regional force, SAMIDRC. They argue its presence is no longer needed.
The ceasefire comes as fighting intensifies in North Kivu. M23 has battled Congolese forces and allies there.
The group briefly held Goma City in 2012 before pulling out. Recently, they launched a new offensive, displacing many.
Ceasefires have failed to hold. The government accuses Rwanda of backing M23, which both deny.
It's unclear if FARDC will honor the ceasefire. The truce may be short-lived in the long conflict.
M23 was formed in 2009 after a failed peace deal. It is led by ex-Congolese officers who allege discrimination and broken promises.
The group made global headlines by taking Goma in 2012. Defeated in 2013, they resurfaced in 2021.
The volatile situation has regional peace implications. The government's response is being closely watched.
M23 condemned the government for a worsening crisis. They criticized FARDC's use of Kavumu Airport to bomb M23-held areas.
The group denied plans to take Bukavu city. They said their focus is defending civilians and territory.
Last weekend, M23's political head said they would march to Kinshasa "until all of DR Congo is liberated." The government vowed to remove the rebels from North Kivu.
M23 called for the withdrawal of a regional force, SAMIDRC. They argue its presence is no longer needed.
The ceasefire comes as fighting intensifies in North Kivu. M23 has battled Congolese forces and allies there.
The group briefly held Goma City in 2012 before pulling out. Recently, they launched a new offensive, displacing many.
Ceasefires have failed to hold. The government accuses Rwanda of backing M23, which both deny.
It's unclear if FARDC will honor the ceasefire. The truce may be short-lived in the long conflict.
M23 was formed in 2009 after a failed peace deal. It is led by ex-Congolese officers who allege discrimination and broken promises.
The group made global headlines by taking Goma in 2012. Defeated in 2013, they resurfaced in 2021.
The volatile situation has regional peace implications. The government's response is being closely watched.
