Over 400 Civilians Killed in Eastern DR Congo Amid Peace Deal Collapse. Goma, Democratic Republic of the Congo — 2025-12-11 Lead Paragraph More than 400 civilians have been killed in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) as the Rwanda-backed M23 armed group intensifies its offensive in South Kivu province, despite a recent peace agreement brokered by the United States.
The surge in violence has displaced over 200,000 people, according to regional officials.
The M23’s latest offensive has seen the group seize control of the strategic town of Uvira, a development that has raised alarm among regional officials and the international community.
The South Kivu government spokesperson reported that the violence has led to the deaths of over 413 civilians, including many women, children, and young people. Regional officials have accused Rwandan special forces and foreign mercenaries of being present in the city, operating in violation of the ceasefire and the Washington and Doha agreements.
M23, which did not sign the peace agreement, has been negotiating separately with the DRC government.
Despite the US — mediated deal, which obligated Rwanda to halt support for armed groups, the situation on the ground has deteriorated.
The US Department of State expressed deep concern over the ongoing violence, urging Rwanda to prevent further escalation.
The US Embassy in Kinshasa called for an immediate cessation of offensive operations by M23 and Rwandan troops. Rwanda’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, however, blamed the Congolese forces for the recent ceasefire violations, stating that the DRC was fighting to recapture territories lost to M23.
The conflict in the mineral — rich east of the DRC has created one of the world’s most significant humanitarian crises, with over seven million people displaced.
The situation in South Kivu remains volatile, with the peace deal facing severe threats. Further details are expected as the situation develops.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 3*
