The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has accused Rwanda of breaching a newly signed peace agreement, as the Kigali-backed M23 rebel group reportedly moves closer to the town of Uvira in South Kivu province. The claims come just days after a US-brokered accord aimed at ending years of conflict between the two countries and armed groups in eastern Congo.

Tshisekedi Claims Rwanda Violated Peace Accord

Speaking to lawmakers, DRC President Felix Tshisekedi alleged that Rwandan forces launched attacks in multiple locations in South Kivu immediately following the signing of the Washington Accord on December 4, 2025, in Washington, D.C. The deal, mediated by the United States and Qatar, was intended to halt hostilities and stabilize the region.

“Despite our good faith and the recently ratified agreement, it is clear that Rwanda is already violating its commitments,” Tshisekedi said, claiming that the Rwandan army carried out attacks using heavy weaponry the very day after the accord was signed.

Rwanda has not immediately commented on the latest allegations. However, Rwandan Foreign Minister Olivier Nduhungirehe previously dismissed similar claims, calling them “ridiculous” and a tactic to shift blame.

M23 Rebels Advance Towards Uvira

The M23 armed group has been steadily advancing toward Uvira, the last major urban center in South Kivu province that remains outside its control. AFP reports that hundreds of DRC and allied Burundian troops have sought refuge inside Burundi amid the rebel push.

Clashes have also been reported near Luvungi, about 40 miles north of Uvira, where M23 fighters reportedly captured the settlement. Sange, located between Uvira and Luvungi, also witnessed intense fighting, resulting in as many as 36 fatalities, reportedly due to bombs or grenades.

Burundi’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned what it described as a Rwandan attack on its territory near Cibitoke, which wounded two civilians, including a 12-year-old child.

From Goma, Al Jazeera correspondent Alain Uaykani noted that tensions remain extremely high as M23 approaches Uvira. Despite months of DRC military preparation, the group’s advance continues, compounded by a lack of coordination between the Congolese forces and allied troops.

International Reactions and U.S. Concerns

The U.S. State Department expressed serious concern over escalating violence in eastern DRC. A spokesperson emphasized that Rwanda must prevent further support to M23 to avoid worsening the situation.

A senior official in the Trump administration indicated that the U.S. is closely monitoring developments and working with both governments to ensure commitments made in Washington are upheld. While President Donald Trump hailed the agreement as a “miracle” and a new chapter for regional stability, analysts remain sceptical, noting that previous ceasefire attempts have failed to end years of conflict in eastern Congo.

The Broader Context

The peace accord, signed on December 4, includes provisions for economic cooperation, including securing U.S. access to critical minerals from the DRC. However, observers argue that the continued M23 advance highlights the fragility of agreements in regions plagued by long-term unrest, ethnic tensions, and cross-border armed groups.