Despite ongoing peace talks between the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Rwanda, fighting has intensified in eastern Congo, casting doubt on the viability of a lasting ceasefire.
On Monday, M23 rebels reportedly seized the town of Lunyasenge in Lubero territory, North Kivu, continuing their advance on the western shores of Lake Edouard.
Local sources confirmed the town’s occupation amid heavy fighting, as civilians fled the area fearing further escalation.
The offensive comes as the DRC and Rwanda each submitted their positions in a preliminary U.S.-backed peace initiative.
Talks are underway in Doha, Qatar, where both parties, alongside representatives of the M23 rebel group, are attempting to lay the groundwork for a political resolution to a conflict that has displaced hundreds of thousands.
While the dialogue has been welcomed by the international community, including the United Nations and African Union, tensions remain high.
The Congolese government has accused Rwanda of continuing to support M23 fighters, a claim Kigali denies.
In turn, Rwanda has pointed to the presence of hostile militia groups, including the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR), operating within Congolese borders.
A senior Congolese military official warned that the continued advance of M23 and alleged foreign backing could “undermine all efforts toward peace.”
Meanwhile, regional and international actors have voiced concern over the deteriorating humanitarian situation, with renewed calls for restraint and adherence to the ceasefire agreement previously brokered under the Luanda and Nairobi processes.
In parallel, the United States is reportedly pushing for a formal peace accord between the DRC and Rwanda to be signed in Washington within two months.
The agreement would be accompanied by significant mineral deals involving tantalum, gold, and other critical resources, potentially unlocking billions of dollars in Western investment.
However, the success of the initiative hinges on mutual concessions: Rwanda is expected to withdraw troops and halt support for armed groups, while Kinshasa must address internal security threats and disband anti-Rwandan militias.
