DR Congo deploys 60,000 troops to retake AFC/M23-held areas
The President of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Félix Tshisekedi, has ordered the deployment of 60,000 soldiers to eastern Congo in a major military push to recapture territory held by the AFC/M23 coalition.
Security sources in Kinshasa revealed that the troops, equipped with heavy weapons, will coordinate operations with Burundian forces currently deployed in South Kivu Province.
Officials noted that this is the first time since 2013 – when the original M23 rebellion was dismantled – that such a large contingent has been deployed under a single order from the presidency.
The government believes the deployment is necessary to reclaim all areas seized by AFC/M23 in North and South Kivu provinces.
However, the AFC/M23 coalition has condemned the move as a provocation, warning that it undermines the ongoing peace talks between the two sides in Doha, Qatar.
In a statement, the coalition affirmed its right to defend civilians and its positions if attacked.
“The reality is clear – Kinshasa wants war, and it will get war. ARC will defend itself, whatever the outcome,” said Benjamin Mbonimpa, Secretary General of M23.
AFC/M23 leader Corneille Nangaa recently stated that the coalition controls more than 34,000 square kilometres of territory in eastern Congo, home to over 11 million people.
M23 rebels stand guard in the city of Goma in the Democratic Republic of Congo on April 7, 2025. REUTERS/Stringer
