Rwanda has accused the Democratic Republic of Congo and the Burundian Army of violating the ceasefire established under the Washington peace agreement, escalating tensions despite the December deal intended to end hostilities in eastern Congo.
In a statement on Wednesday, 10 December, Rwanda’s Foreign Ministry argued that Kigali cannot be held liable for renewed fighting in South Kivu, alleging that Congolese and Burundian forces, alongside militia groups and foreign mercenaries, have bombarded civilian areas near the Rwandan border, using fighter jets and drones.
The accusations came shortly after President Felix Tshisekedi told Congo’s parliament that Rwanda was undermining the US-brokered peace initiative.
According to Kigali, Burundi has deployed close to 20,000 troops to support Congolese forces and has imposed a siege on Banyamulenge communities in Minembwe in what Rwanda describes as a deliberate attempt to starve civilians.
Kigali further claimed that Congo has openly rejected observing the ceasefire, insisting it is fighting to reclaim territory held by AFC/M23 rebels, even as diplomatic efforts continue. Recent clashes have left at least 74 people dead and more than 80 injured, while M23 forces have reportedly captured parts of Uvira, a key commercial town near the Burundian border.
Amid rising hostilities, both Kigali and Kinshasa have reiterated their commitment to dialogue as the sustainable route to regional stability. Tshisekedi restated his belief in the diplomatic process, while Rwanda urged all parties to recommit to the Washington Accords and finalise remaining elements of the Doha Agreement. The conflict, which reignited in 2021 with the resurgence of the M23 rebel group, continues to draw international concern, with the UN and Congo accusing Rwanda of supporting the rebels—allegations Kigali continues to deny.