Overview

• The M23 militia has canceled its participation in planned peace talks in Angola, blaming EU sanctions and continued military operations by the Congolese army.
• The EU has imposed sanctions on Rwanda and M23 leaders, including military generals and a gold refinery, over alleged support for the militia's activities in the DRC.
• Rwanda has severed diplomatic ties with Belgium in response to Belgium's push for EU sanctions and suspension of development aid.
• The conflict in eastern DRC has resulted in over 7,000 deaths and the displacement of hundreds of thousands since January 2025, creating a severe humanitarian crisis.
• The M23 militia continues to finance its operations through illegal mining, generating an estimated $800,000 monthly, while controlling key cities like Goma and Bukavu.