UN Experts Say Eastern Congo Peace Deal Faces Serious Setbacks as Armed Groups Continue Violating Ceasefire

A new report from United Nations experts says the peace agreement aimed at reducing violence in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo is facing significant challenges, with multiple armed groups continuing to violate ceasefire commitments. The findings have raised fresh concerns about regional stability despite ongoing diplomatic efforts to end the conflict.

According to the report, the Rwandan-backed M23 rebel group continues to maintain control over large areas of eastern Congo while expanding its influence in strategically important regions. UN investigators also said the Congolese army has continued cooperating with armed militias that were expected to be disarmed under the peace agreement.

The report warns that continued fighting is worsening one of Africa's largest humanitarian crises. Thousands of civilians remain displaced, while access to food, healthcare, and emergency assistance has become increasingly difficult in several affected communities. Humanitarian organizations are calling for greater international support as the security situation remains unstable.

Relations between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo remain tense. Kigali continues to deny accusations that it supports the M23 rebels, while Congolese authorities insist foreign backing has allowed the group to expand its military operations across the mineral-rich eastern provinces.

The United Nations has urged all parties to fully implement the peace agreement and immediately halt activities that threaten regional stability. International observers say restoring confidence in the peace process will require stronger monitoring, improved security cooperation, and renewed diplomatic engagement between both countries.

Analysts believe the coming weeks will be critical for the future of the peace process. Without meaningful progress on disarmament and the withdrawal of armed groups, there are growing fears that violence could intensify once again, further worsening the humanitarian situation and delaying efforts to bring lasting peace to eastern Congo.