The United States has accused Rwanda of violating a peace agreement with the Democratic Republic of Congo, warning that the actions could spark war in the Great Lakes region. The agreement, signed just over a week ago, was hailed as “historic” by President Donald Trump and raised hopes for an end to the decades‑long conflict. However, the recent capture of the strategic city of Uvira by Rwanda‑backed M23 rebels has cast doubt on the deal’s effectiveness.
United Nations experts have said the M23 rebels, who are not signatories to the U.S.‑brokered agreement, are under “de facto control” by Kigali. U.S. ambassador to the UN Mike Waltz expressed disappointment at the renewed violence and warned that those responsible would be held accountable. The rebels are currently participating in a parallel peace process led by Qatar, a U.S. ally.
Bertrand Bisimwa, deputy coordinator of the AFC‑M23 rebel alliance, argued that the Washington Accord only addresses relations between Congo and Rwanda and has little impact on the internal conflict. The rebel group seeks to establish a federal system in the DRC that balances power between the provinces and the central government. Bisimwa emphasized that their goal is not to create a Balkanized state but a symmetrical system where authority is shared.
The conflict in eastern Congo has generated one of the world’s most severe humanitarian crises, displacing more than 7 million people. Over 100 armed groups vie for control of the mineral‑rich region, with M23 among the most prominent. Kinshasa and Kigali have each blamed the other for violating the Washington Accord, which was intended to end the fighting. The situation remains volatile, and the United States and other international actors are urging all parties to adhere to the peace agreement.
The UN refugee agency has warned of devastating consequences as the conflict leaves millions without basic necessities. As events unfold, the international community will be watching closely to see whether the peace agreement can be salvaged and a lasting solution found for the DRC.
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