The United States expressed deep concern on Friday over reported ceasefire violations by M23 rebels in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo.
The U.S. State Department emphasized the urgency of ending the hostilities in a statement issued from Washington.
“M23 must immediately cease hostilities and withdraw from its positions in Walikale territory, North Kivu Province,” State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said.
He also urged Rwanda to promptly remove all Rwanda Defense Force personnel and equipment from Congolese territory, including surface-to-air missile systems.
The M23, a Tutsi-led rebel group, has been leading a renewed insurgency in eastern Congo since 2022.
This conflict has fueled instability across the region, with repeated accusations exchanged between Congo and Rwanda over the group’s support and intentions.
Both the Congolese government and the United Nations have accused Rwanda of supporting M23 by providing weapons and troops to bolster their ranks.
Rwanda, however, denies these allegations, maintaining that it has no involvement in the rebel group’s activities.
As tensions continue to mount, the U.S. has reinforced its call for peace and de-escalation, urging all parties involved to respect ceasefire agreements.
The situation remains fragile, with international eyes closely watching for signs of resolution in the troubled region.
