South Kivu: Sukhoi-25 Jets and Drones Strike Banyamulenge Areas

South Kivu, December 15, 2025 - Warplanes and drones have carried out a series of airstrikes on areas inhabited by the Banyamulenge community in South Kivu province, causing civilian deaths and injuries, according to opposition politician Moïse Nyarugabo.

Nyarugabo said the first drone strike hit the Rugezi area in Fizi territory at around 5:00 p.m. on December 15. Shortly afterward, a Sukhoi-25 fighter jet bombed Rwitsankuku, before continuing its attacks on Gahwera and Mikenke.

“These strikes killed many civilians and left others wounded,” Nyarugabo said, adding that a similar Sukhoi-25 attack had already targeted Rwitsankuku on the morning of December 14.

According to him, the aircraft and drones involved are believed to belong to Burundi. He called for accountability, urging that those who ordered the strikes - including pilots and airbase controllers - be held responsible.

The air and drone attacks have intensified since last week, following the defeat of Burundian, FARDC, Wazalendo and FDLR forces by the AFC/M23 in the Rusizi Valley, further deepening fears of a widening regional conflict.