Rising Tensions: Congo Accuses Rwanda Amid Fresh Clashes

Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi accuses Rwanda of breaching a U.S.-brokered peace deal aimed at resolving conflicts in mineral-rich eastern Congo. Following a recent signing ceremony, clashes have erupted near the Burundi border involving M23 rebels, leading to civilian and military casualties and escalating regional tensions.

In a significant development, Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi has accused Rwanda of violating a U.S.-brokered peace agreement intended to halt years of conflict in the mineral-rich eastern region of the Democratic Republic of Congo. The allegations came shortly after his participation in a signing ceremony in Washington, aimed at consolidating the peace initiative. Rwanda has yet to officially respond to these claims.

Efforts to implement the peace accord have been marred by deadly clashes in recent months, involving Congo, Rwanda, and the M23 rebel group. According to local sources, M23 rebels, reportedly backed by Rwanda, have advanced towards the village of Luvungi near the Burundi border. Rwanda, however, denies supporting the rebels.

The conflict has intensified, with Congolese soldiers retreating and clashing with Wazalendo defense forces in Sange over the weekend, resulting in a devastating explosion that killed 36 people, including civilians and children. The exact source of the attack remains unclear, and both the Congolese army and M23 have not commented on the incident.

(With inputs from agencies.)