Eastern DRC crisis: Rwanda’s military support for M23 rebels persists, un report reveals
The rebel coalition Alliance du Fleuve Congo (AFC)/M23, which has seized control of significant territories in North-Kivu and South-Kivu provinces, continues to receive sustained military backing from Rwanda Defense Forces (RDF) according to the latest United Nations expert panel report. The document, submitted to the UN Security Council Committee on May 8, 2026, and reviewed on June 5, 2026, paints a troubling picture of cross-border military collaboration that contradicts regional peace efforts.
Military integration and operational support
UN investigators documented persistent RDF presence in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) with no signs of withdrawal. The report highlights the deployment of advanced military capabilities including drones, electronic warfare systems, and special forces units actively supporting AFC/M23 operations. Most concerning is the integration of RDF personnel within mixed battalions alongside M23 fighters, particularly commandos from Rwandan bases in Bigogwe, Rubavu, and Cyangugu.
To obscure their involvement, some RDF troops have reportedly adopted M23 uniforms and conduct nighttime movements. The report specifically notes RDF combat engagement in areas where no FDLR presence was previously recorded, such as around Uvira, challenging Rwanda’s stated justification of “defensive measures” against rebel groups.
Escalating troop numbers and strategic positioning
As of December 2025, conservative estimates placed RDF deployment at 8,000–10,000 personnel in South-Kivu and 6,000–8,000 in North-Kivu. Rather than withdrawing, subsequent movements consisted primarily of reinforcements and unit rotations, maintaining pressure on DRC government forces.
The report details how RDF units are opening operational corridors and providing direct offensive support to AFC/M23 battalions. Each M23 combat unit appears to operate under RDF supervision, with rapid deployment capabilities enhancing the rebels’ military effectiveness on the ground.
Diplomatic paralysis amid deteriorating security
This damning assessment comes as diplomatic initiatives including the Washington Accord and Doha Process have failed to curb the violence or bring conflicting parties to agreement. Despite multiple negotiation cycles in Washington, Doha, and Montreux, Kinshasa and Kigali continue to interpret key provisions differently, stalling implementation of peace commitments made nearly a year ago.
The security and humanitarian crisis in eastern DRC has intensified amid these stalled processes. Regional observers warn that without concrete action to address external military interference, the conflict will continue to destabilize the Great Lakes region.
