What's happened
As of March 2026, eastern Congo remains embroiled in conflict despite peace deals brokered by the US. The M23 rebel group, backed by Rwanda, controls key cities including Goma and Bukavu. US sanctions target Rwanda's military for supporting M23, while drone strikes and clashes continue, displacing over 7 million people and complicating peace efforts.
What's behind the headline?
Persistent Conflict Despite Diplomatic Efforts
The ongoing violence in eastern Congo reveals the limits of diplomatic agreements when underlying issues remain unaddressed. The US-brokered Washington Accords and subsequent peace deals have failed to halt fighting, largely because of entrenched rebel groups like M23 and the complex regional dynamics involving Rwanda.
Regional Power Struggles and Proxy Conflict
Rwanda's alleged backing of M23, despite official denials, underscores a proxy dimension to the conflict. US sanctions on Rwanda's military leadership highlight international frustration but have not yet shifted the conflict's trajectory. Rwanda's dual role—supporting M23 in Congo while deploying troops in Mozambique against jihadist insurgents—reflects its strategic regional ambitions.
Humanitarian Crisis and Child Labor
The conflict has precipitated one of the world's largest humanitarian crises, with over 7 million displaced. Child labor in mineral-rich mining areas like Rubaya remains rampant, despite legal prohibitions, driven by poverty and lack of alternatives. The trauma of survivors like Mishiki Nshokano illustrates the human cost behind the headlines.
Economic Interests and Global Technology Supply Chains
Eastern Congo's vast mineral wealth, essential for smartphones and electric vehicles, fuels the conflict. While US companies seek access to these resources, local communities see little benefit, trapped in dangerous artisanal mining and violence. This disconnect between global demand and local suffering complicates peace and development efforts.
Outlook
Without robust enforcement of peace agreements, inclusive political solutions, and international support addressing both security and economic grievances, the conflict will likely persist. Continued violence threatens regional stability and prolongs humanitarian suffering, while global technology supply chains remain indirectly linked to this instability.
What the papers say
The New York Times' Matthew Mpoke Bigg details the US Treasury's sanctions on Rwanda's military leadership, highlighting the international community's attempt to pressure Kigali over its alleged support for M23. Reuters' Kanishka Singh emphasizes the coordinated steps agreed upon by Congo, Rwanda, and the US to de-escalate tensions, including troop disengagement and efforts to neutralize the FDLR militia. Al Jazeera provides a poignant human perspective through Mishiki Nshokano's story, a child miner affected by the conflict and economic hardship in Rubaya. AP News and The Independent report on the ongoing clashes and drone strikes in Goma, noting the humanitarian toll and the challenges to peace efforts despite agreements brokered by US President Donald Trump. All Africa and Arab News explore Rwanda's defensive stance regarding US sanctions and its military role in Mozambique, underscoring the broader regional security context. These sources collectively illustrate a multifaceted conflict involving geopolitical maneuvering, humanitarian crises, and economic exploitation, with peace efforts undermined by persistent violence and mistrust.
How we got here
The conflict in eastern Congo involves over 100 armed groups, with M23, a Tutsi-led rebel faction backed by Rwanda, seizing territory since 2024. US-brokered peace agreements in late 2025 aimed to end hostilities, but fighting and human rights abuses persist. The region is rich in minerals critical to global technology, yet local populations suffer ongoing violence and displacement.
Go deeper
- What is the role of Rwanda in the eastern Congo conflict?
- How effective are the US sanctions on Rwanda's military?
- What is the humanitarian impact of the conflict on local communities?
Common question
-
Why Are the US Sanctions Rwanda Now?
Recent US sanctions against Rwanda have raised many questions. Why is the US targeting Rwanda at this time? What are the reasons behind these measures, and how does it relate to ongoing conflicts in the region? In this page, we explore the background of the sanctions, Rwanda's response, and what it means for regional stability and US foreign policy.
-
What Are the Latest Developments in the Congo and Rwanda Conflict?
The ongoing conflict between Congo and Rwanda has seen recent escalations, with international responses intensifying. From US sanctions to regional peace efforts, many are asking what’s happening now and what it means for stability in Africa. Below, we explore the latest news, responses from global powers, and the prospects for peace in this volatile region.
-
Why Did the US Impose Sanctions on Rwandan Military Leaders Over Congo Support?
The US has recently imposed sanctions on Rwandan military leaders amid ongoing accusations of their support for rebel groups in eastern Congo. This move raises questions about regional stability, Rwanda's role in the conflict, and what these sanctions mean for peace efforts. Below, we explore the key issues and answer common questions about this complex situation.
-
Why Did Russia and Belarus Return to the Winter Paralympics Now?
The return of Russia and Belarus to the Winter Paralympics in Milan-Cortina has sparked widespread debate. After years of bans due to doping scandals and the invasion of Ukraine, their participation under their national flags marks a significant shift. But what prompted this decision, and what are the reactions? Below, we explore the reasons behind their return, the international response, and what it means for the future of the Games and regional stability.
-
What’s happening in the US and regional conflicts: Cuba, Rwanda, and Syria?
Recent tensions around the world have raised many questions about regional conflicts and international security. From a deadly Cuba-US speedboat clash to US sanctions on Rwanda and escalating Israeli military actions in Syria, these events are shaping the geopolitical landscape. Here, we answer some of the most common questions to help you understand what’s really going on and what it means for global peace and stability.
-
What’s happening in Congo right now?
The conflict in eastern Congo continues to escalate, with recent clashes, drone strikes, and humanitarian crises dominating the news. Despite peace efforts and sanctions, fighting persists, raising questions about the current situation and future prospects for peace. Below, we explore the latest developments, regional impacts, and what might come next.
-
Why Did the US Temporarily Waive Sanctions on Russian Oil?
In March 2026, the US took a surprising step by temporarily waiving sanctions on Russian oil. This move aims to stabilize global energy markets amid geopolitical tensions and disruptions caused by conflicts in the Middle East and Eastern Europe. Many wonder what prompted this decision, how it affects the global economy, and who benefits from it. Below, we explore the key questions surrounding this significant policy shift.
-
What’s Causing the Recent Clashes in Eastern Congo?
The ongoing conflict in eastern Congo remains a major concern, with recent clashes and drone strikes fueling instability. Many wonder what’s behind these renewed hostilities and how they impact regional peace efforts. Below, we explore the key questions about the conflict, its causes, and the international role in trying to restore stability.
-
What’s Really Happening in Eastern Congo and the Middle East?
Conflicts in eastern Congo and Lebanon are making headlines worldwide, but what’s the real story behind these ongoing crises? From rebel groups and international sanctions to regional tensions and peace efforts, these regions are at the center of complex geopolitical struggles. Below, we answer the most common questions to help you understand what’s happening now and what it might mean for the future.
More on these topics
-
Rwanda, formerly Ruanda, officially the Republic of Rwanda, is a landlocked country in the Great Rift Valley where the African Great Lakes region and East Africa converge. One of the smallest countries on the African mainland, its capital city is Kigali.
-
The Democratic Republic of the Congo, also known as Congo-Kinshasa, Zaire, DR Congo, DRC, the DROC, or simply the Congo, is a country located in Central Africa. It was formerly called Zaire.
-
The M23 rebellion was an armed conflict in North Kivu, Democratic Republic of the Congo, that occurred between the March 23 Movement and government forces between 4 April 2012 and 7 November 2013.
-
The United States of America, commonly known as the United States or America, is a country mostly located in central North America, between Canada and Mexico.
-
Goma is a city in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. It is the capital and largest city of the North Kivu Province; it is located on the northern shore of Lake Kivu and shares borders with the Bukumu Chiefdom to the north, Rwanda to the east..
-
The Republic of the Congo, also known as Congo-Brazzaville, the Congo Republic or simply the Congo, is a country located in the western coast of Central Africa.
-
Donald John Trump is an American politician, media personality, and businessman who served as the 45th president of the United States from 2017 to 2021.
-
The United Nations is an intergovernmental organization that aims to maintain international peace and security, develop friendly relations among nations, achieve international cooperation, and be a centre for harmonizing the actions of nations.
-
Paul Kagame is a Rwandan politician and former military leader. He is the 6th and current president of Rwanda, having taken office in 2000.
-
Mozambique, officially the Republic of Mozambique, is a country located in Southern Africa bordered by the Indian Ocean to the east, Tanzania to the north, Malawi and Zambia to the northwest, Zimbabwe to the west, and Eswatini and South Africa to the sout