M23 Rebels Withdraw from Angola Peace Talks as Fighting Escalates

The M23 cites EU sanctions and government military actions for its boycott, while clashes continue near Walikale and regional tensions rise.

The M23 rebel group has announced its withdrawal from peace negotiations in Angola, citing EU sanctions and military actions by the Congolese government.
European Union sanctions targeting M23 leaders and Rwandan officials have led to heightened tensions, including Rwanda cutting diplomatic ties with Belgium.
Angolan President João Lourenço, acting as mediator under African Union efforts, continues to push for a ceasefire despite the M23's absence.
The Congolese government remains committed to the peace process and has welcomed the EU sanctions as a step toward accountability.
Fighting persists near Walikale, with nearly 3,000 deaths reported in the ongoing conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo.