M23 Rebels Seize Strategic Mining Hub in Eastern DRC Despite Ceasefire Calls
The capture of Walikale underscores the continued advance of Rwanda-backed M23 rebels, defying a ceasefire agreement announced by the presidents of Rwanda and the DRC during Qatar-mediated talks.
- M23 rebels, reportedly backed by Rwanda, have taken control of Walikale, a key mining hub in North Kivu province, marking their farthest advance westward in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
- The capture comes just days after the presidents of Rwanda and DRC met in Qatar and called for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire, which M23 has rejected.
- The ongoing conflict has displaced over 700,000 people and killed thousands since January 2025, with severe humanitarian consequences, including reports of human rights abuses and sexual violence.
- International sanctions, including those from the EU and the US, target M23 leaders and Rwandan officials accused of supporting the group, escalating diplomatic pressure on Rwanda.
- Qatar's mediation efforts reflect its growing role in African diplomacy, but the lack of M23 participation in the talks highlights challenges in achieving a durable resolution to the conflict.
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