AFC/M23 Announces Unilateral Ceasefire Amid Kinshasa Attacks

Kinshasa, DRC - December 19, 2025 - The Congo River Alliance (AFC/M23) declared a unilateral ceasefire on Friday, citing a commitment to peace and a desire to provide a genuine opportunity for the restoration of stability in eastern DR Congo.

Despite the ceasefire, the coalition accused government forces of continuing systematic attacks against civilians and AFC/M23 positions, in violation of previous agreements.

Lawrence Kanyuka, spokesperson for AFC/M23, reported that government forces targeted populated areas using kamikaze drones, naval artillery, and heavy weapons, escalating violence even after the ceasefire was announced.

“Starting at 5:00 a.m., coalition forces launched attacks using kamikaze drones and naval units, striking densely populated areas and our positions in Makobola, near Baraka. At 5:30 a.m., Minembwe was targeted with drones and heavy artillery, spreading terror among civilians,” Kanyuka said.

The spokesperson called on Congolese citizens and the international community to witness what AFC/M23 described as repeated violations of the ceasefire and the continued massacres of civilians.

“These acts demonstrate that the Kinshasa regime seeks neither peace nor the protection of civilians, but persists in maintaining violence and impunity,” Kanyuka added.

The statement highlights the fragile security situation in eastern DR Congo, where attempts at ceasefire and diplomacy remain under severe strain amid ongoing clashes between government forces and rebel groups.