As peace talks aimed at finding a lasting solution to the long-running conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo continue in Doha, Qatar, the United States has begun to openly express its position regarding the conduct of the warring parties.
This followed in particular the decision by the AFC/M23 coalition to withdraw its fighters from the city of Uvira, a move welcomed by international mediators but followed by continued attacks against the group.
On December 17 and 18, 2025, AFC/M23 fighters began withdrawing from the city of Uvira, which they had taken on December 9. This step was taken in response to a request from the United States, a key partner in the peace talks aimed at ending the conflict and insecurity that continue to claim civilian lives in the Kivu provinces.
AFC/M23 stated that the decision was intended to build confidence and demonstrate its willingness to pursue a political dialogue. However, before implementing the withdrawal from Uvira, the coalition raised serious concerns, calling on the Congolese government forces not to immediately return to the city. Instead, it urged the establishment of reliable mechanisms to protect civilians and prevent a potential security vacuum.
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International mediators, including the United States, Qatar, and the African Union (AU), were called upon to play an active role in safeguarding civilian security, particularly during the transition period following AFC/M23’s withdrawal from Uvira.
AFC/M23’s Deputy President in charge of political affairs, Bertrand Bisimwa, explained that although the step was significant, it should not be considered sufficient unless civilian protection is prioritized.
He stated: “It is a positive step to see M23 forces leave Uvira, but what is even more important is to see the city and its residents protected by forces that do not carry a harmful ideology or engage in criminal activities.”
Despite AFC/M23’s declaration of readiness to contribute to peace efforts in the region, various reports confirmed that its positions in North Kivu province, particularly in Masisi territory, continued to be attacked by Wazalendo armed groups backed by the Congolese government.
These attacks have further exposed deep mistrust and a lack of genuine commitment to the peace process, developments that have increasingly drawn public criticism from senior U.S. officials.
On the night of December 18, 2025, U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham, who represents South Carolina in the United States Senate, issued strong remarks reflecting Washington’s view of the situation.
He said he was pleased with AFC/M23’s decision to withdraw from Uvira but expressed deep concern over reports that the group continued to face attacks while complying with peace-related commitments.
“I am pleased to hear reports that M23 forces are withdrawing from Uvira in the DRC. However, it is deeply troubling to learn that these forces are being attacked as they withdraw. It is essential for the United States to assert its leadership role and bring all parties back to the negotiating table,” he said.
Senator Graham’s remarks underscored that the United States does not want constructive steps taken by one side to be undermined by continued military actions. He reiterated that peace talks remain the foundation for a lasting solution to the conflict, rather than continued warfare that claims the lives of innocent civilians.
On the other hand, the Congolese government stated that it was not satisfied with AFC/M23’s withdrawal from Uvira alone, insisting that the coalition must withdraw its fighters from all areas under its control. These remarks came as Kinshasa continues to assert that it cannot accept a political solution that does not involve the complete dismantling of AFC/M23.
All of this unfolded as, on the morning of December 19, 2025, AFC/M23 announced that the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (FARDC) had launched an attack on its positions in the Makabola area of South Kivu province.
AFC/M23 spokesperson Lawrence Kanyuka stated that the Congolese military coalition used combat drones and naval forces originating from the city of Baraka in Fizi territory. He said the attacks were not limited to AFC/M23 positions but also targeted civilians.
Kanyuka explained that residents of Makabola and parts of Minembwe were attacked using combat drones and heavy weapons, causing widespread fear and severe trauma among the population.
“AFC/M23 calls on Congolese citizens and international partners to bear witness to this deliberate and repeated violation of the ceasefire, aimed at continuing to kill our people,” he said.
AFC/M23 stated that these attacks further demonstrate that the Congolese government is not committed to peace and does not prioritize civilian protection, as abuses against civilians continue without accountability.
The coalition also recalled that prior to withdrawing from Uvira, it had publicly requested that Congolese, Burundian, Wazalendo, and FDLR forces not return to the city, citing past allegations of serious abuses against civilians during periods when those forces controlled the area.
Overall, these developments illustrate the complexity of the peace process in eastern DRC, marked by limited hope but continually undermined by ongoing military actions.
Nevertheless, statements from the United States, particularly those of Senator Lindsey Graham, suggest that international pressure may continue to intensify in an effort to bring all parties back to the negotiating table and protect civilian lives.
