As of March 10, 2025, M23 has made significant advances in eastern DRC, especially in North Kivu, where pro-Congolese militia factions have defected to support M23. The U.S. is considering a minerals partnership with the DRC, and the government has placed bounties on M23 leaders. Ongoing clashes continue across several axes, indicating a volatile situation.
The Congo War Security Review provides a concise account of activities related to the ongoing conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) involving the M23 group, Rwandan support, and pro-Congolese government forces. As of March 10, 2025, M23 has achieved notable advances towards Walikale, having captured a key town on a crucial road, amidst significant defections from pro-Congolese militias to M23. The U.S. State Department expresses interest in a minerals partnership with the DRC, while the Congolese government has placed bounties on senior M23 leaders.
In the Northern Axis, multiple pro-Congolese Wazalendo militia factions have merged with M23’s political alliance, the Alliance Fleuve Congo (AFC), creating a strong coalition. Reports from Kivu Morning Post indicate that this coalition is advancing towards Kasugho, aiming to support M23’s strategy against the FARDC. The news highlights the defection of the influential FPP-AP group to M23’s side, which could heavily impact the operational dynamics in North Kivu.
In the Southern Axis near Minembwe, clashes between FARDC and M23-affiliated groups have been ongoing, including FARDC-led airstrikes against rebel positions. The FARDC has increased military activity in response to M23’s captures of several villages, indicating a heightened conflict level in this region.
Meanwhile, in the Northwest Axis, M23 successfully captured critical junctions that enhance their control over Masisi district. Their advances into villages such as Nyabiondo are strategically important for cutting off pro-Congolese forces from resupplying, thus solidifying M23’s positions towards rich mineral areas.
No significant developments were noted in the Southwest Axis. However, it remains essential to monitor all axes as conditions evolve.
Political dynamics are shifting, with the U.S. expressing openness to mining partnerships in the DRC. President Tshisekedi’s proposition for the U.S. and EU to invest in Congo’s mineral wealth marks a potential strategic engagement. Additionally, the government announced bounties on key M23 figures to incentivize information leading to their capture, reflecting the intensification of governmental efforts against insurgent groups.
In summary, the Congo War Security Review highlights M23’s critical advances in North Kivu, bolstered by defections from pro-Congolese factions. The regional conflict involves intense clashes and strategic maneuvers, especially in key districts. U.S. interest in a minerals partnership with the DRC indicates a potential shift in international engagement, while government bounties on M23 leaders signify escalating pressures on insurgent operations. Continuous monitoring of military and political developments is essential as the situation unfolds.
Original Source: www.criticalthreats.org
