M23 Announces Ceasefire in DRC Amid Rising Regional Tensions

In a surprising turn of events, the M23 rebel group has declared a unilateral ceasefire in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), just days before a high-stakes summit between Congolese President Félix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame. The announcement follows the M23’s recent seizure of Goma, the capital of North Kivu province, which drew widespread international condemnation. While the ceasefire has momentarily halted hostilities in Goma, clashes have now spread to South Kivu, raising concerns about the sustainability of peace.

The ceasefire declaration comes ahead of a crucial summit in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, where regional leaders from the East African Community (EAC) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC) will discuss the escalating conflict. The Congolese government has long accused Rwanda of supporting M23, a claim Rwanda denies. As diplomatic efforts intensify, uncertainty remains over whether this ceasefire marks a genuine step toward lasting peace or merely a temporary lull before further violence.

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