M23 Rebels Advance in Congo Displacing 200,000 Despite US-Brokered Peace Deal

About 200,000 people have fled their homes in eastern Congo. This mass displacement comes amid a new offensive by the Rwanda-backed M23 rebel group. The fighting escalated just days after a high-profile peace ceremony in Washington.

The United Nations confirmed the dire situation. It reported at least 74 people killed, mostly civilians. The violence shatters a deal brokered by former U.S. President Donald Trump.

Strategic Town Under Threat as Front Lines Collapse

Rebel forces are advancing toward the strategic town of Uvira. This town sits on the border with Burundi. Local officials confirm fierce clashes in nearby villages.

According to Reuters, the rebels captured the frontline town of Luvungi. Fighting is now concentrated near Sange and Kiliba. These villages are on the main road leading to Uvira from the north.

The conflict has created a severe humanitarian crisis. Over 1.2 million people were already displaced before this surge. New arrivals are straining aid resources in already crowded camps.

Washington’s Peace Efforts Undermined by Immediate Fighting

The timing deeply undermines international diplomacy. Presidents Paul Kagame of Rwanda and Felix Tshisekedi of Congo met on December 4. Trump hosted them to sign a pact affirming commitments to end the war.

President Tshisekedi has since accused Rwanda of violating its commitments. He addressed lawmakers in a speech on Monday. Rwanda continues to deny supporting the M23 rebels.

The U.S. State Department expressed deep concern over the violence. A spokesperson called on Rwanda to prevent further escalation. Washington and U.N. reports cite clear evidence of Rwandan backing for the rebels.

The renewed offensive makes clear the fragile nature of the recent deal. The M23 rebel advance continues to destabilize the region, casting doubt on diplomatic promises and leaving hundreds of thousands in desperate need.

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What is the M23 rebel group?

The M23 is a militant group operating in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. It is composed primarily of ethnic Tutsis. The United Nations and United States assert it receives backing from neighboring Rwanda.

What was the Washington peace deal about?

Former President Donald Trump hosted the leaders of Rwanda and Congo on December 4. They signed a pact affirming earlier commitments to end the conflict. The ceremony was meant to showcase a diplomatic breakthrough.

How many people have been displaced recently?

The United Nations says about 200,000 people fled in recent days. This adds to a pre-existing crisis where over 1.2 million were already displaced. The total humanitarian impact is immense.

Which areas are currently under threat?

The rebel push is targeting the lakeside town of Uvira. Fighting is reported near the villages of Sange and Kiliba. The capture of Luvungi marked a significant front-line collapse.

How has the international community reacted?

The U.S. State Department urged Rwanda to stop supporting M23. The UN has documented casualties and displacement. The response highlights frustration over broken peace commitments.