The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is currently embroiled in escalating tensions with neighboring Rwanda, primarily due to the resurgence of the M23 rebel group. The conflict has intensified over recent months, leading to significant territorial losses for the DRC and a mounting humanitarian crisis.
In January 2025, the DRC severed diplomatic ties with Rwanda, accusing its neighbor of providing support to the M23 rebels. This decision came as the rebels advanced towards major cities in eastern Congo, notably Goma and Bukavu. The M23, a predominantly Tutsi militia, has been accused of receiving logistical and military assistance from Rwanda—a claim that Kigali has consistently denied.
The situation deteriorated further on February 14, 2025, when M23 forces captured Bukavu, the second-largest city in eastern DRC. The takeover was marked by a chaotic withdrawal of Congolese army units and their allies, leading to widespread panic among the civilian population. Hospitals in Bukavu were overwhelmed with patients suffering from gunshot wounds, many of whom recounted being caught in the crossfire during the disorganized retreat. Reports indicate that the distribution of weapons to civilians, including minors, exacerbated the violence and contributed to the chaos.
The human toll of the conflict has been staggering. Since January 2025, over 7,000 people have lost their lives due to the fighting in eastern Congo. The violence has also displaced approximately 500,000 individuals, with 60,000 seeking refuge in neighboring Burundi. The humanitarian crisis has drawn international attention, prompting the European Union to reassess its critical raw materials agreement with Rwanda and suspend defense consultations, thereby increasing diplomatic pressure on Kigali.
The conflict’s complexity is further highlighted by incidents such as the February 27 attack during an M23 rally in Bukavu. Several explosions resulted in multiple fatalities and injuries among attendees. Rebel leader Corneille Nangaa accused Congolese authorities of orchestrating the attack, while DRC President Felix Tshisekedi condemned the blasts as acts of terrorism perpetrated by a foreign army. This incident underscores the deep-seated animosities and the intricate dynamics at play in the region.
In response to the escalating crisis, the international community has taken measures aimed at de-escalation. The United States imposed sanctions on Rwandan state minister James Kabarebe for his alleged involvement with the M23 rebels. The United Kingdom has also paused aid to Rwanda and implemented diplomatic sanctions, demanding tangible progress in conflict resolution and the withdrawal of Rwandan troops from Congolese territory. These actions aim to pressure Rwanda into ceasing support for the M23 and to encourage a peaceful resolution to the conflict.
Historically, relations between the DRC and Rwanda have been fraught with tension, particularly since the aftermath of the 1994 Rwandan genocide. During that period, millions of Rwandan refugees, including Hutu extremists responsible for the genocide, fled into eastern Congo. The presence of these militias, particularly the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR), has fueled ongoing hostilities. Rwanda has long justified its interventions in the DRC by citing security threats posed by these groups operating along its border.
The First and Second Congo Wars (1996-1997 and 1998-2003) saw Rwanda play a significant role in supporting Congolese rebel factions to overthrow the then-president Mobutu Sese Seko and later battle the new government of Laurent-Désiré Kabila. The latter war, often called ‘Africa’s World War,’ involved multiple African nations and resulted in millions of deaths, mainly from conflict-related starvation and disease. Even after the formal end of hostilities, Rwanda has remained a key player in eastern Congo’s instability, with accusations of backing armed groups, including the M23, resurfacing periodically.
The eastern DRC has long been a volatile region, with various armed groups vying for control over its rich mineral resources. The M23’s resurgence is rooted in these longstanding issues, as the group claims to protect Tutsis and Congolese of Rwandan origin. However, their actions have led to widespread displacement and suffering among the local population, further complicating efforts toward peace.
Despite international efforts to mediate, a lasting peace remains elusive. The African Union and regional bodies have called for ceasefires and initiated peace talks, but these efforts have yet to yield significant results. The DRC’s vast size and the presence of numerous armed factions make the implementation of peace agreements particularly challenging. Additionally, the involvement of external actors and the competition for valuable mineral resources add layers of complexity to the conflict.
Experts say the ongoing crisis between the DRC and Rwanda highlights the urgent need for a comprehensive and inclusive approach to peacebuilding in the region. Addressing the root causes of the conflict, including ethnic tensions, resource competition, and historical grievances, is crucial for achieving lasting stability. The international community’s continued engagement and support are essential in facilitating dialogue, providing humanitarian assistance, and ensuring accountability for those perpetuating violence. As the situation unfolds, the people of eastern Congo bear the brunt of the conflict, enduring displacement, insecurity, and loss. Their plight serves as a stark reminder of the human cost of prolonged instability and the imperative for concerted efforts toward peace and reconciliation in the Great Lakes region.
