The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and the M23 rebel group, widely believed to be backed by Rwanda, have agreed to an immediate ceasefire as Qatar-mediated peace talks continue in Doha. The truce, announced Wednesday, is intended to last until the negotiations reach a final resolution. The breakthrough comes after over a week of intense discussions described by both sides as “frank and constructive.” In a joint statement, both parties committed to ending hostilities, denouncing hate speech, and urging local communities to support peace efforts.
The agreement follows a surprise meeting last month between President Félix Tshisekedi of DR Congo and Rwandan President Paul Kagame, during which both leaders also pledged to support an “unconditional” ceasefire. Since January 2025, violence in eastern Congo has surged, with over 7,000 civilians reported killed, according to Congolese authorities. The M23 offensive captured key cities including Goma and Bukavu, raising fears of regional escalation.
The Congolese government continues to accuse Rwanda of arming the M23 and exploiting eastern Congo’s vast mineral wealth—allegations Rwanda denies. Kigali insists its forces act only in self-defense against hostile militias linked to perpetrators of the 1994 Rwandan genocide. Despite previous failed ceasefire agreements since 2021, the latest pact is being cautiously welcomed. Belgium’s Foreign Minister Maxime Prevot called the move “a crucial step toward ending the violence.”
Qatar emerged as a key mediator after M23 rejected peace talks in Angola. Notably, this marks one of the first times Kinshasa has held direct talks with M23, which it has previously designated a terrorist group. Though sources say “technical issues” nearly derailed the discussions, both parties now appear committed to seeing the process through. Still, the durability of the truce remains uncertain amid the region’s volatile history.
