Ceasefire in Walikale Falters Amid Renewed Tensions

A ceasefire between Congolese forces and M23 rebels in Walikale, eastern Congo, has broken down, following rebels' claims that the army violated agreements. This setback diminishes hopes for peace in a region plagued by decades of conflict over control of mineral resources and lingering effects of the 1994 Rwandan genocide.

A de facto ceasefire between Congolese forces and Rwandan-backed rebels in Walikale, eastern Congo, appears to have collapsed. The M23 rebels reversed their pledge to withdraw, accusing the army of violating its commitments. This development undermines efforts to resolve one of the region's biggest conflicts.

The breakdown of the ceasefire threatens to escalate tensions in eastern Congo, an area long marred by conflict rooted in the 1994 Rwandan genocide and disputes over mineral wealth. The M23 rebels' control over major cities has already resulted in thousands of deaths and raised concerns of regional war.

Negotiations between Congo and the rebels have repeatedly failed, with recent talks in Angola stalling. Angola has since announced its withdrawal as a mediator. Both the Congolese government and international entities accuse Rwanda of supporting M23 rebels, allegations Rwanda denies.

(With inputs from agencies.)