AFC/M23 Declares Unilateral Ceasefire Amid Ongoing Attacks by Kinshasa Forces

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

However, the coalition accused the Kinshasa regime of continuing what it described as a campaign of systematic attacks against civilians and AFC/M23 positions, in clear violation of prior commitments.

According to AFC/M23 spokesperson Lawrence Kanyuka, coalition forces from the Kinshasa government targeted populated areas with kamikaze drones, naval artillery, and heavy weapons, escalating violence despite the ceasefire.

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

The spokesperson called on Congolese citizens and international partners to bear witness to what AFC/M23 characterized as repeated and deliberate violations of the ceasefire, highlighting the continued massacres of civilians.

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

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