Conflict Continues Despite US Mediation Efforts in Congo

Intense fighting persists in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, following US-brokered diplomatic talks with Congolese and Rwandan leaders. Despite signing an agreement to stabilize the region, ground battles persist, with accusations of bombings and civilian displacements escalating the humanitarian crisis.

Fierce battles erupted in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo on Friday, despite recent diplomatic efforts in Washington hosted by U.S. President Donald Trump. The talks sought to end decades-long conflict in the mineral-rich region.

Congo's President Felix Tshisekedi and Rwanda's Paul Kagame had reaffirmed commitments to a U.S.-negotiated deal aimed at stabilizing the region and attracting Western mining investors. Trump's administration is actively engaging in global conflicts to strengthen his peacemaking image.

Yet, on the ground, the Rwandan-backed AFC/M23 rebel group claims the Congolese government is launching widespread attacks. Videos of displaced families fleeing South Kivu convey the tangible humanitarian toll of these ongoing clashes, raising doubts about the effectiveness of the June agreement.

(With inputs from agencies.)