Rwanda and DRC Presidents Pledge Ceasefire in Qatar as M23 Conflict Escalates

Despite a new ceasefire commitment, M23 militia retains control of key territories, peace talks falter, and the humanitarian crisis deepens.

The presidents of Rwanda and the DRC met in Qatar and committed to an immediate, unconditional ceasefire to address the ongoing conflict in eastern Congo.
The M23 militia, reportedly backed by Rwanda, continues to control significant territories, including Goma and Bukavu, with over 7,000 deaths and mass displacement since January 2025.
The EU imposed sanctions on Rwandan officials and M23 leaders, citing resource exploitation and human rights abuses, which the M23 claims undermined peace negotiations in Angola.
Rwanda severed diplomatic ties with Belgium, accusing it of neocolonial interference after Belgium supported the EU sanctions.
Humanitarian conditions in the region remain dire, with over seven million displaced and critical infrastructure in conflict zones severely disrupted.