The coalition of rebel groups in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, known as the Congo River Alliance, has announced a humanitarian ceasefire starting Tuesday, amidst increasing violence and international condemnation. The alliance, including the Rwanda-backed M23 rebels, has asserted that the ceasefire aims to protect civilians and stabilize the region.**
Rebel Coalition in DR Congo Announces Humanitarian Ceasefire Amidst Ongoing Conflict**
Rebel Coalition in DR Congo Announces Humanitarian Ceasefire Amidst Ongoing Conflict**
Rebels in eastern DR Congo declare a ceasefire, citing humanitarian concerns as fighting escalates and international calls for peace grow louder.**
The coalition of rebel groups in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo has declared a humanitarian ceasefire, effective Tuesday, amidst an intensifying conflict that has led to significant civilian casualties and displacement. The announcement comes from the Congo River Alliance, a consortium that includes the M23 rebels, who have gained ground in eastern territories.
In its statement, the rebel alliance emphasized the need for humanitarian relief, following accusations against the Congolese military of aerial bombardments resulting in civilian deaths. According to recent reports from the United Nations, fighting around Goma, the largest city in eastern Congo, has resulted in at least 900 deaths and nearly 3,000 injuries.
The G7 nations and the EU have voiced strong opposition to the rebel offensives, condemning them as violations of Congolese sovereignty. The alliance has pledged to halt territorial expansion, contrasting earlier intentions expressed in the past week and affirming their commitment to civilian protection.
Displaced populations have faced dire conditions in recent years, with over 400,000 individuals uprooted since the beginning of 2025, according to UN refugee agency statistics. Amid heightened scrutiny, Rwandan President Paul Kagame has denied knowledge of any Rwandan troop presence in Congo but acknowledged concerns regarding Rwanda's security interests.
Human rights activists maintain that pressure must be applied to Rwanda to de-escalate tensions, as Congolese officials call for international sanctions against Kigali. Patrick Muyaya, the Congolese communications minister, has urged the global community to hold Rwanda accountable for its actions, emphasizing the need for concrete measures to ensure peace in the region.
As both Congolese and Rwandan leaders prepare for a peace summit in Tanzania, apprehensions linger regarding the feasibility of fruitful negotiations in light of previous breakdowns in dialogue.
