**In a move aimed at alleviating humanitarian crises in eastern DR Congo, rebel forces declare a ceasefire while tensions with Rwanda escalate.**
**DR Congo Rebels Announce Humanitarian Ceasefire Amid Ongoing Conflict**
**DR Congo Rebels Announce Humanitarian Ceasefire Amid Ongoing Conflict**
**Rebel groups in DR Congo halt fighting, citing humanitarian concerns in a complex regional conflict.**
The uneasy calm in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has been punctuated by a declaration from various rebel factions, including the Rwanda-supported M23 group, announcing a humanitarian ceasefire effective Tuesday. The ceasefire was claimed to be in response to severe humanitarian conditions stemming from ongoing fighting, particularly around the eastern city of Goma, the country’s largest city in the region.
The United Nations has reported at least 900 casualties and 2,880 injuries attributed to the recent clashes. These incidents have also seen condemnation from G7 countries and the EU, citing the escalation as a blatant violation of DRC’s sovereignty.
In a statement, the Congo River Alliance, which comprises the rebel factions, accused the Congolese military of indiscriminate violence against civilians, including the use of airstrikes on their controlled areas. Despite recent territorial gains, the rebels have, for the time being, refrained from further advances and have committed to maintaining their current positions. "We are dedicated to safeguarding both our fighters and the civilian population,” the statement read.
The ongoing conflict has resulted in massive displacement, with over 400,000 individuals forced from their homes in just 2025, according to the UN refugee agency. Rwandan President Paul Kagame, discussing his country’s involvement, acknowledged the uncertainty regarding troop presence but underscored Rwanda’s vested interests in the security of its borders.
Simultaneously, human rights advocates have called for increased international pressure on Rwanda to mitigate its military involvement. In a recent statement, Congolese communications minister Patrick Muyaya urged the global community to consider sanctions against Rwanda, arguing it's essential to protect peace prospects within the region.
In a related development, both the Congolese and Rwandan leaders are expected to participate in a peace summit in Tanzania this forthcoming Friday, where discussions are aimed at addressing the long-standing tensions. However, with a history of failed negotiations spanning over three decades, speculations abound over whether fruitful resolutions can be achieved this time.
