The M23 armed group has significantly ramped up its military actions in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) in recent weeks. From Friday to Monday, they opened fire on bases occupied by pro-Kinshasa militia and installed government troops. Mutanda insists that Rwanda is backing M23’s current deepening offensive, which has pushed these forces back tens of kilometers. Deadly confrontations were violent, with both small and large caliber firearms used. This surge in violence comes even as the group faces sanctions from the United States for its involvement in illicit mining and its role in ongoing conflict in the region.
M23 is now in control of strategic areas, surrounding the cities of Rubaya, Goma, and Bukavu. In these regions, they’ve established their own administrations. Earlier this year, the group seized the cities of Goma and Bukavu, cementing its control over much of eastern DRC. M23’s re-invading and aggressive actions have led to the deaths of over 1,900 people. This battle-tested violence is a cause for great concern over stability in an already fragile region.
The Congolese army has blamed M23 for breaking a newly signed ceasefire deal — hammered out with mediation by the United States — a month after it was signed. The DRC government views M23’s actions as part of a broader strategy, with army officials stating that they will respond “to all provocations from this coalition, accustomed to violating agreements.”
Lawrence Kanyuka, M23’s spokesman, defended the group’s actions, claiming that the DRC government is continuing “its offensive military manoeuvres aimed at full-scale war.” Yet the statement reflects the inherent tensions and complexities of this long-standing and tragic conflict. Both sides are preparing for what promises to be a protracted battle.
In response to M23’s activities, U.S. officials have reiterated their commitment to enforcing sanctions against groups that undermine peace in the DRC. Tammy Bruce, a spokesperson for the U.S. State Department, emphasized that “no armed group or commercial entity is immune from sanctions if they undermine peace, stability or security in the DRC.” This stance reinforces the international community’s resolve to address the humanitarian crisis exacerbated by M23’s operations.
As tensions intensify, M23 prepares itself to fight in preparation for face-to-face talks with the DRC government. They plan to sign a final peace agreement no later than August 18. After the past months’ clashes and the continuing hostilities all around, it’s hard to see how such agreements could succeed. Like everything in the West Bank today, reality is dangerous and quickly evolving, as both sides work through a potential quagmire to an anticipated electoral coup.
