New York — The United States has accused Rwanda of undermining a recent peace agreement aimed at stabilizing eastern Congo, where a surge in violence attributed to Rwandan-backed rebels has left over 400 civilians dead. The U.S. warned of potential consequences for what they term “spoilers” of the peace process.

U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, Mike Waltz, expressed grave concerns during a Security Council meeting, condemning the resurgence of assaults by the M23 rebel group. Reports indicate that Rwandan special forces are active in Uvira, a critical city in South Kivu province, which further complicates an already tense situation.

Waltz asserted that Rwanda’s actions jeopardize regional stability, stating the U.S. would employ various measures to hold those responsible for the unrest accountable. He urged Rwanda to respect Congo’s sovereignty and invited support from Burundi to aid Congolese forces in their defense efforts.

The increase in hostilities by M23 follows the signing of a peace agreement last week between the presidents of Congo and Rwanda. However, the accord notably excluded the M23 group, which has been negotiating its own ceasefire with the Congolese government and has since accused each other of violations.

In a troubling escalation, M23’s advancement threatens to draw in neighboring countries, particularly Burundi, which has maintained a military presence in eastern Congo and is increasingly concerned about the spillover of violence. The Congo’s communication ministry confirmed on Friday that Uvira had fallen to the rebels, a significant strategic blow to Congolese forces.

The capture of Uvira consolidates the M23’s influence throughout eastern Congo, further complicating the conflict that has already pushed approximately 200,000 individuals to flee. Civilians have begun crossing into Burundi, raising alarms as border towns experience shelling, intensifying fears of a broader regional conflict.

With over 100 armed groups competing for dominance in the mineral-rich eastern region, the humanitarian fallout has been catastrophic, with more than 7 million displaced due to ongoing violence. Rwanda is accused by both Congo and UN experts of providing direct support to M23, significantly increasing its ranks.

Waltz claimed that Rwandan troops have been actively aiding M23 through training and logistics. As many as 7,000 Rwandan soldiers are believed to be stationed alongside the rebels, further exacerbating the delicate situation.

Congo’s Foreign Minister, Thérèse Kayikwamba Wagner, criticized Rwanda’s actions as a violation of the peace agreement, which was seen as a potential turning point for the region. She urged the UN Security Council to implement sanctions against those responsible for the renewed aggression, including a ban on mineral exports from Rwanda and restrictions on Rwandan troops participating in UN peacekeeping efforts.

As tensions continue to escalate, the region’s critical mineral wealth remains a focal point for international interest, including that of the United States. With potential implications for global supply chains, the situation demands urgent attention to prevent a humanitarian disaster from spiraling into a full-blown regional conflict.