The Congo War Security Review dated March 10, 2025, outlines significant M23 territorial advances in eastern DRC, including the defection of pro-Congolese militia factions. Key military clashes occurred across various axes, with the U.S. expressing interest in a minerals partnership with the DRC government, which has also placed bounties on senior M23 leaders.
The Congo War Security Review for March 10, 2025, provides a comprehensive analysis of the ongoing conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) involving the M23 rebel group and supporting Rwandan forces against pro-Congolese government forces. Significant territorial gains were reported by M23 towards the Walikale district, evidenced by their capture of a critical gateway town. Furthermore, three pro-Congolese militia factions defected to join M23, substantially undermining the efforts of the Congolese army (FARDC).
In the Northern Axis, cohorts from the Wazalendo militia joined M23’s political alliance on March 9, enabling a strategic movement towards Kasugho village. Reports indicated that M23 has targeted FARDC positions in Lubero since late February, highlighting their military strategy of flanking governmental forces. The defection of FPP-AP fighters severely compromises FARDC’s ability to thwart M23’s advances, particularly as the group has expanded into essential areas within Lubero.
In the Southern Axis, clashes continued between FARDC and M23-aligned troops in villages near Minembwe town as of March 10, with FARDC executing air strikes against rebel positions. Pro-Congolese government forces reinforced their hold in these regions after earlier M23 captures. Moreover, in the Northwest Axis, M23 seized Nyabiondo, enhancing their control over strategic routes crucial for future operations towards the mineral-rich Walikale district.
No significant developments were reported from the Southwest Axis. However, several major political developments emerged. The U.S. Department of State expressed openness to a minerals partnership with the DRC, following President Félix Tshisekedi’s proposal to engage the United States and the European Union regarding the nation’s mineral resources. Additionally, the DRC government places a bounty on senior M23 officials, signifying increased governmental pressure on the group, with ongoing discussions about strengthening international relationships in the mineral sector.
The review highlights the intensifying conflict in eastern DRC, marked by M23’s strategic gains and the defection of key militia groups, which has severely impacted the Congolese army’s efforts. The US’s interest in a potential minerals partnership further complicates the geopolitical landscape while local military engagements continue to shape the battlefield dynamics.
Original Source: www.criticalthreats.org
