FARDC Sukhoi-25 Jets Strike AFC/M23 Positions in Masisi and Walikale

NORTH KIVU - The Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (FARDC) launched airstrikes against AFC/M23 positions in the territories of Walikale and Masisi on the morning of November 27, 2025, deploying Sukhoi-25 fighter jets in an effort to halt rebel advances.

According to military sources, the strikes targeted rebel-held zones in Kibati (Walikale) and Kasopo (Masisi). The bombings coincided with an ongoing Wazalendo offensive on AFC/M23 positions in Kibati, involving both heavy and light weaponry.

AFC/M23 fighters have controlled Kibati for eight months. Although Wazalendo briefly recaptured four positions there on October 11, 2025, they withdrew after only two days. Since then, repeated joint attempts by Wazalendo and FARDC - supported by fighter jets and drones - have failed to reclaim the area.

Parallel clashes continue in South Kivu, particularly in Mwenga and Shabunda, where AFC/M23, Wazalendo militias, FARDC, and Burundian troops have engaged in heavy fighting for several consecutive days.

On November 26, Burundian forces suffered a major setback in Kasika (Mwenga), facing fierce resistance from AFC/M23 fighters before eventually retreating.

In response, FARDC deployed a Sukhoi-25 to strike AFC/M23 positions in Kasika. However, the airstrike failed to dislodge the rebels, who maintain firm control over the area.