In a significant development in eastern Congo, M23 rebels Uvira withdrawal was announced by the Alliance Fleuve Congo (AFC), the political wing of M23, following requests from U.S. mediators. This decision comes after rising international pressure on Rwanda, accused of backing the M23 group in its recent offensive, particularly the capture of Uvira.
Details of the M23 Rebels’ Withdrawal
On December 15, 2025, M23 forces pledged to unilaterally withdraw from Uvira, a key city in South Kivu, as part of a trust-building measure. The announcement was made following pressure from U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and other officials who condemned Rwanda’s involvement in the attack. The rebels agreed to vacate the city to ensure the success of the Doha peace process and to make space for a neutral force to protect civilians and monitor the ceasefire.
The announcement was part of broader efforts to ease tensions in the region, where the U.S. has strongly criticized Rwanda for allegedly sustaining the M23 offensive, in violation of the Washington Accords signed earlier in December. The U.S. had warned that further military cooperation with Rwanda could be jeopardized unless the Kigali government adhered to its commitments.
International Reactions to the Withdrawal
The M23 rebels Uvira withdrawal has fueled speculation that Rwanda may have instructed the group to retreat to avoid sanctions and mitigate the risk of further diplomatic isolation. The U.S. has expressed its dissatisfaction with Rwanda’s role in the ongoing conflict, with some officials threatening targeted sanctions and military restrictions if Rwanda fails to comply with international peace agreements.
U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau criticized the M23’s actions and warned of the grave consequences of continued instability in the region. “Rwanda’s actions are a clear violation of the Washington peace agreement,” Landau remarked, underscoring the importance of fulfilling international commitments.
M23’s Conditions for Withdrawal
While agreeing to pull out of Uvira, M23 stated that the withdrawal should be accompanied by the demilitarization of the city and the deployment of a neutral force to ensure the safety of civilians and oversee the ceasefire. The rebels also vowed to prevent hostile armed groups from using the areas under their control as bases for cross-border attacks, particularly towards Burundi and Congo.
The withdrawal raises concerns over the potential for Congolese forces and allied militias to exploit the situation and reassert control, as has happened in the past with similar withdrawals. M23 has urged that the protection of civilian lives and infrastructure be prioritized during this transition.
The M23 rebels Uvira withdrawal marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing peace process in eastern Congo, driven by intense U.S. diplomatic pressure. As the situation continues to evolve, international actors are closely monitoring the implementation of the peace agreements, with the hope that this move will contribute to long-term stability in the region. However, the challenges of ensuring civilian safety and maintaining the ceasefire remain significant.