DRC and Rwanda Agree on Neutralizing FDLR, but M23 Violence Escalates in the East
A new security roadmap has been set between the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Rwanda, and the United States, aiming to neutralize the FDLR and progressively withdraw Rwandan troops from Congolese territory. However, on the ground, the conflict continues to intensify, with M23 movements reported in both North Kivu and South Kivu.
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What Was Decided in Washington
On September 17–18, the Joint Security Coordination Mechanism (JSCM) met in Washington with delegations from the DRC, Rwanda, the U.S., Qatar, Togo and the African Union.
- Neutralization of the FDLR will begin on October 1, 2025.
- Between October 21–31, Rwanda is expected to start withdrawing its troops.
- Full implementation is targeted before the end of 2025.
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Escalating Tensions on the Ground
- In Lubero, M23 fighters with heavy weapons have been deployed in Katondi, Kipese, and Kirumba, raising fears of an imminent attack.
- In South Kivu, clashes have been reported in Nzibira, Ndiba, Kaniola, and Kamisimibi, where General Bernard Byamungu even held a public rally on September 25.
- In Goma, M23 fighters carried out security sweeps on September 25 in Karisimbi, arresting youths and religious leaders accused of supporting pro-government groups.
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At the United Nations
During his speech at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on September 25, Rwanda’s Foreign Minister Olivier Nduhungirehe accused Kinshasa of slowing down the peace process, denouncing the use of mercenaries, drones, and cooperation between FARDC and the FDLR.
Kinshasa, however, defends its cooperation with Wazalendo militias, seen as key in containing M23’s advances.
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Next Steps
The JSCM will reconvene in Washington on October 21–22, 2025, to evaluate the first phase of the roadmap’s implementation.
📖 Read more here: Mecamediaafrica.com
✍️ Author: Mangwa
🔖 Tags: #DRC #Rwanda #FDLR #M23 #NorthKivu #SouthKivu #Washington #UNGA