The United States has expressed its deep concern over the increasing levels of violence in the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). It has specifically blamed the M23 armed group for fueling the conflict, alleging that it is receiving support from Rwanda. The US State Department has issued a statement demanding that M23 immediately cease hostilities and retreat from its current positions in the region.

The statement also condemned Rwanda for its alleged backing of the M23 rebels. The United States has called for the immediate withdrawal of all Rwandan military personnel from the DRC. It cited the presence of surface-to-air missile systems, which pose a threat to the safety of civilians, peacekeepers, humanitarian workers, and commercial flights in the area.

However, Rwanda has firmly denied any involvement with the rebels. The United States has also urged the DRC to support confidence-building measures by discontinuing cooperation with the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda armed group.

The recent clashes between M23, the DRC army, and pro-M23 self-defense groups have resulted in the mass displacement of communities. In response to the worsening situation, South Africa has announced its plan to deploy 2,900 troops to assist Congo in combating rebel groups. This deployment is part of the efforts by the Southern African Development Community to restore peace in the region.

The escalating violence and continued clashes have had devastating humanitarian consequences, with communities being displaced and basic infrastructure being destroyed. The international community, including the United States, is deeply concerned about the situation and is working towards finding a politically inclusive and peaceful resolution to the conflict in the eastern part of the DRC.