Recent events surrounding the M23 rebellion have intensified as fighting escalates in eastern Congo, particularly around the strategic city of Goma. The Congolese government has faced significant challenges, including the seizure of key territories by M23 rebels, who are reportedly backed by Rwanda. Diplomatic tensions have risen, leading to the severing of ties between the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Rwanda. Amidst this turmoil, humanitarian crises have emerged, with millions displaced and acute hunger affecting millions in the region.
The M23 rebellion, named after the March 23, 2009 peace agreement that ended a previous conflict, reignited in 2012 when a group of former rebels accused the DRC government of failing to uphold the terms of the agreement. The movement is primarily composed of Tutsi fighters and has been linked to Rwanda, which has been accused of providing military support. The conflict has been marked by severe human rights violations, including sexual violence and the targeting of civilians, exacerbating the already dire humanitarian situation in the mineral-rich eastern DRC.
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UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has convened a coalition of European leaders to formulate a peace plan for Ukraine following a contentious meeting between Ukrainian President Zelensky and US President Trump. The coalition aims to ensure strong US backing for any ceasefire agreement while increasing military support for Ukraine.
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Recent cuts to U.S. foreign aid are severely impacting health initiatives in Africa, particularly in combating malaria and infectious diseases. Health officials warn of increased cases and fatalities as funding halts critical prevention and treatment programs. The situation is dire, with millions at risk due to the suspension of essential support.
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On March 22, 2025, the Congo River Alliance announced a repositioning of M23 forces in eastern DRC, following failed peace talks with the Congolese government. This comes amid escalating violence and humanitarian crises, with over 7,000 deaths reported since January. The situation remains tense as both sides seek dialogue.
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Rwanda has expelled Belgian diplomats and severed diplomatic ties following EU sanctions against Rwandan officials for their role in the Congo conflict. The sanctions, led by Belgium, accuse Rwanda of supporting armed groups in eastern Congo, escalating tensions between the two nations.
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Over a thousand disarmed Congolese soldiers and police officers, along with their families have safely been transferred from the rebel-controlled city of Goma in eastern Congo to the capital Kinshasa over the last two weeks
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M23 rebels have seized control of Walikale, a strategic mining town in eastern DRC, following a failed ceasefire negotiation with the Congolese government. This advance raises concerns over humanitarian impacts and regional stability, as the town's capture disrupts military positions and threatens local mining operations. The situation remains tense as diplomatic efforts continue.
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The South African Development Community (SADC) troops are set to withdraw from eastern Congo following a joint agreement with M23 rebels. The withdrawal comes after the rebels captured key cities, including Goma and Bukavu, amid escalating violence and humanitarian crises affecting millions. The situation remains tense as ceasefire talks stall.
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Since January, over 70,000 people have fled to Burundi due to escalating violence from the M23 rebel group in eastern DRC. The World Food Programme warns that funding for food assistance is critically low, risking suspension of aid by July 2025.
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The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is experiencing a humanitarian crisis, with 28 million people facing acute hunger due to escalating violence and economic instability. The World Food Programme (WFP) warns of a funding shortfall that threatens food aid for millions, particularly in conflict-affected eastern regions.
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Three American citizens, Marcel Malanga, Tyler Thompson, and Benjamin Zalman-Polun, have been repatriated to the U.S. after their death sentences in Congo were commuted to life imprisonment. This decision follows a meeting between U.S. officials and Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi, amid ongoing discussions about a minerals deal between the two nations.
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US President Donald Trump's advisor Massad Boulos announced potential multibillion-dollar investments in the Democratic Republic of Congo's mining sector following talks with President Félix Tshisekedi. The agreement aims to enhance security and economic development amid ongoing conflicts in the region. M23 rebels recently withdrew from a key mining town, Walikale.
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On April 25, 2025, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Rwanda signed a 'declaration of principles' aimed at ceasing hostilities and fostering peace amid escalating violence from Rwandan-backed M23 rebels. The agreement, witnessed by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, includes commitments to explore joint security measures and enhance economic cooperation, particularly in mineral investments.
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UNICEF reports that children account for 35% to 45% of nearly 10,000 cases of sexual violence in the DRC during January and February 2025. The ongoing conflict, driven by M23 rebel advances, has led to a systemic crisis, with a child reportedly raped every half hour. Urgent funding is needed to support survivors.
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The Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwandan-backed M23 rebels have agreed to work towards a truce following negotiations in Qatar. This development comes amid ongoing violence that has escalated since January, raising fears of a wider regional conflict. Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to cease hostilities and reject hate speech.
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Congo and Rwanda are advancing towards a peace agreement amid escalating conflict in eastern Congo, where M23 rebels have seized key cities. U.S. involvement is seen as crucial for stabilizing the region and facilitating investment. The International Committee of the Red Cross is facilitating the transfer of Congolese soldiers back to Kinshasa.