Kinshasa, December 28, 2025 – The armed conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) between government forces and the March 23 Movement (M23) rebels remains active, with sporadic clashes reported in North and South Kivu provinces despite diplomatic efforts and a partial rebel withdrawal from the strategic city of Uvira earlier this month.
M23, accused by the DRC, UN experts, and Western governments of receiving substantial support from Rwanda (denied by Kigali), continues to hold significant territory, including the cities of Goma and Bukavu captured earlier in 2025. The group briefly seized Uvira in South Kivu on December 10, prompting international condemnation and threats of sanctions.
Under pressure from US mediators, M23 announced a unilateral withdrawal from Uvira starting mid-December, describing it as a confidence-building measure for ongoing Qatar-mediated talks with the DRC government. Reports confirmed partial pullbacks, with some forces establishing buffer zones nearby. The DRC government has characterized the withdrawal as incomplete or tactical, while fighting has persisted in surrounding areas.
As of late December, clashes continue along frontlines, particularly in Fizi district south of Uvira, where pro-government Wazalendo militias and Congolese forces (FARDC) have engaged M23 positions. Additional skirmishes have been reported around Kahuzi-Biega National Park in Kalehe and Kabare districts. No major territorial changes have occurred since the Uvira episode.
The December 4 US-brokered Washington Accords between DRC President Félix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame, aimed at de-escalation and economic integration, have faced accusations of violations from both sides. The UN Security Council extended the MONUSCO peacekeeping mandate until December 2026 on December 20, condemning ongoing offensives and calling for withdrawals.
The humanitarian crisis has worsened, with over seven million displaced nationwide and hundreds of thousands affected by the December flare-up alone. Reports highlight civilian casualties, resource exploitation, and strained aid access.
Diplomatic processes, including Qatar talks and regional mediation, persist amid mutual distrust. Analysts describe prospects for lasting peace as challenging, with underlying issues of security, resources, and ethnic tensions unresolved. The situation remains volatile, with risks of renewed escalation.