Congo forces advance in east

Congolese government forces, supported by allied Wazalendo fighters, moved into the Ruzizi Plain in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo after M23 rebels withdrew from several positions, local officials and residents reported. Troops in pickup trucks entered Sange and conducted foot and motorcycle patrols; footage showed damaged homes, abandoned belongings and an armoured vehicle left behind. Authorities said the advance allowed the armed forces to re-establish control over contested towns and key routes in the strategically important border corridor that links eastern Congo with Rwanda and Burundi.

The withdrawal and government advance come amid continued fighting across North and South Kivu, where multiple armed groups have long fueled instability, displacement and humanitarian crises. Officials described the move as progress in restoring state authority but warned the security situation remains fragile and could change rapidly. Residents reported heightened military activity and movement of heavy equipment as forces consolidated positions, while humanitarian agencies monitored conditions for displaced civilians and access to aid.

Diplomatic efforts involving mediators from Qatar, the United States and African partners are under way to revive peace talks between Kinshasa, Kigali and the AFC/M23 alliance following a Washington agreement and separate Doha negotiations that aimed to secure a ceasefire and a broader political settlement. Despite these initiatives, sporadic clashes persist and analysts caution that the broader conflict is unresolved: M23 has been accused by the Congolese government of receiving external support—a claim the group and its alleged backers deny—and other armed actors remain active across the region.

Humanitarian organizations emphasize the severe toll on civilians, citing large-scale displacement, food insecurity and disrupted access to basic services in and around the Ruzizi Plain. Observers say that while the reported rebel pullback offers a tactical opening for government forces and diplomats, lasting stability will depend on sustained ceasefire enforcement, credible political agreements and improved security across eastern provinces.