M23 rebels sit on a truck during the escort of captured FDLR members (not pictured) to Rwanda for repatriation, at the Goma-Gisenyi Grande Barrier border crossing, March 1, 2025. REUTERS
Luanda, Angola – Angola has offered to mediate direct negotiations between the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and the M23 rebels, following a meeting between DRC President Felix Tshisekedi and Angolan President Joao Lourenco in Luanda.
The Angolan presidency announced plans for direct talks in Luanda between DRC delegations and M23 rebels in the coming days. The M23 rebels have captured significant territories in North and South Kivu provinces since January, including Goma and Bukavu.
The Congolese government’s participation remains uncertain, as it has previously declined to negotiate with M23. However, Congo’s presidential spokesperson has acknowledged the initiative. An M23 spokesperson welcomed the move, calling it “a victory of reason,” and confirmed their participation.
The DRC accuses Rwanda of supporting the M23, a charge Kigali denies. Rwanda, in turn, alleges that the DRC supports the FDLR, a group associated with the 1994 Rwandan genocide. The DRC accuses Rwanda of violating its sovereignty and territorial integrity by sending troops to support armed groups.
