M23 Declares Ceasefire as Regional Summit on DRC Conflict Approaches

The humanitarian truce comes as leaders from the DRC, Rwanda, and regional blocs prepare for critical peace talks in Tanzania.

• The M23 rebel group has announced a humanitarian ceasefire in eastern DRC, stating it has no plans to advance further despite recent gains in North Kivu province.
• Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame are expected to participate in a joint East African Community (EAC) and Southern African Development Community (SADC) summit to address the escalating conflict.
• The DRC accuses Rwanda of backing M23 rebels, while Rwanda denies involvement and counters with accusations of Congolese support for anti-Rwandan groups like the FDLR.
• The ceasefire follows years of failed truces and comes as South Africa and Uganda increase their military involvement in the region, raising fears of broader regional escalation.
• The summit aims to revive diplomatic efforts, though key disagreements persist, including whether to negotiate directly with M23 or require Rwanda's withdrawal from Congolese territory first.

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