Rwandan and Congolese leaders call for ceasefire amid escalating DRC conflict

Rwandan President Paul Kagame and Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi met in Tanzania on February 8, 2025, to discuss the escalating conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Regional leaders called for an immediate ceasefire as the Rwanda-backed M23 group continues to advance. The M23 has captured significant territory, including the city of Goma, leading to thousands of deaths and displacements. Local panic has increased as the group pushes toward the town of Kavumu, critical for supplying Congolese troops. Despite previous failed peace talks and ceasefires, the situation remains dire. The United Nations reports nearly 3,000 confirmed deaths since the M23's recent offensive began, with concerns about human rights violations and the potential for a wider regional conflict.