Over 400 Civilians Killed in Eastern DR Congo as U.S.-Mediated Peace Deal Falters

Violence has surged in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), leaving over 400 civilians dead amid an offensive by the Rwanda-backed M23 rebel group despite a recent U.S.-mediated peace agreement intended to calm the long-running conflict.

Regional authorities reported that more than 413 civilians, including women, children and young people, have been killed by bullets, grenades and bombs in the provinces between the strategic city of Uvira and the regional capital Bukavu as fighting continues unabated.

The death toll reflects the latest escalation in a broader humanitarian catastrophe that has displaced millions and undermined fragile efforts toward stability in the mineral-rich eastern DRC.

The peace deal, signed in Washington by the presidents of the DRC and Rwanda, called for an end to support for armed groups and de-escalation of hostilities.

However, the agreement did not directly include M23, which has continued its offensive, rapidly advancing and consolidating control over key urban centres.

Local officials have accused Rwandan special forces and foreign mercenaries of operating alongside M23 fighters in violation of ceasefire commitments, though Kigali denies backing the rebels.

The capture of Uvira, a vital port city on Lake Tanganyika near the Burundi border, marked a significant strategic gain for M23 and triggered mass displacement, with tens of thousands of civilians fleeing their homes into neighbouring Burundi and other parts of the DRC. The offensive has further strained regional relations, prompting warnings from Burundi’s government and concerns about cross-border spillover.

Humanitarian conditions across the region are deteriorating rapidly. With more than seven million people already displaced and local health systems overwhelmed, the continued violence has crippled access to food, medical care and basic services.

U.N. and aid agencies have repeatedly condemned the killing of civilians and the urgent need for protection corridors, but persistent insecurity and multiple armed factions make assistance delivery extremely difficult.

The faltering peace process has drawn international attention and calls for renewed diplomatic engagement. The United States and the United Nations have urged all parties, including M23 and Rwandan forces, to halt offensive operations and honour existing commitments.

However, mistrust between the Congolese government, rebel factions and regional powers continues to hinder the practical implementation of ceasefire terms, leaving civilians exposed to ongoing hostilities and suffering.

Sources: Al Jazeera, Associated Press, The Independent