SOUTH KIVU, Democratic Republic of Congo — Clashes between the M23 rebel group and Congolese government forces, backed by coalition troops, erupted across South Kivu province on Tuesday, December 2, 2025, intensifying tensions in the eastern DRC.
Fighting Across Key Areas
Reports indicate heavy battles in Katogota-Luvungi, Kaziba-Haut Plateau, Tchivanga-Hombo, and Kasika-Mwenga, forcing many residents to flee amid growing fears for their safety.
M23 leader Bertrand Bisimwa confirmed the confrontations, while spokesperson Lawrence Kanyuka accused government forces of attacking densely populated areas, calling the situation “rapidly worsening and devastating for local communities.”
Peace Framework in Doubt
The outbreak comes less than a month after a Doha peace framework was signed on November 8, 2025, aimed at advancing talks between M23 and the government. Both sides have since accused each other of violating ceasefire commitments, raising doubts about the agreement’s effectiveness.
Rebel Control
M23 currently controls significant portions of North and South Kivu, including the strategic cities of Goma and Bukavu, as well as Goma and Kavumu airports.
Since its resurgence in 2022 under Bisimwa and Emmanuel Sultan Makenga, the group has faced repeated accusations from the DRC government of receiving support from Rwanda — allegations denied by both Kigali and M23. The rebels claim their campaign targets corruption, discrimination, and xenophobia within the Congolese political system.