KINSHASA, Dec. 2 (Xinhua) -- The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and the March 23 Movement (M23) rebels on Tuesday traded accusations of violating a ceasefire in the country's east, each blaming the other for fresh attacks despite ongoing international mediation.
In a statement, Sylvain Ekenge, spokesperson for the DRC Armed Forces (FARDC), condemned a series of M23 assaults on military positions in South Kivu Province, where several localities, including the provincial capital, Bukavu, have fallen under rebel control.
The M23 rebels, in return, accused Kinshasa of "launching widespread attacks on densely populated areas as well as across all frontlines" in South Kivu. M23 spokesperson Lawrence Kanyuka alleged that FARDC forces struck the densely populated town of Kamanyola, a strategic crossroads now held by the rebels, killing at least three civilians and injuring five others.
According to United Nations sources, heavy clashes erupted early Tuesday on multiple fronts in South Kivu, heightening fears for civilians caught between the warring parties.
The latest escalation comes despite a framework agreement signed in November between the DRC military and the M23, outlining confidence-building measures toward a full ceasefire and a negotiated peace deal.
"These attacks clearly demonstrate their (M23's) determination and willingness to sabotage the peace agreements," Ekenge said. "All necessary measures are being taken to block the belligerent ambitions of this coalition of evil."
On Thursday, DRC President Felix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame are due in the United States to endorse a peace accord already signed in June by their foreign ministers.
Eastern DRC has endured decades of conflict, compounded by the M23's resurgence since late 2021. Kinshasa accuses Rwanda of supporting the group, an allegation Kigali denies. ■