Congo-Rwanda M23 Peace Framework: Promises Amid Persistent Tensions and Regional Risks

In a high-profile event mediated by Qatar, Congo's government and the Rwanda-supported rebel group M23 signed a framework agreement this past Saturday aimed at ending decades of brutal conflict in eastern Congo. But beyond the diplomatic ceremony lies a sobering reality: entrenched hostilities and competing agendas continue to undermine lasting peace.Are Negotiations Enough When Violence Continues?The accord, described by M23’s Benjamin Mbonimpa as a preliminary framework rather than a final deal, outlines eight protocols addressing what they call the "root causes" of the conflict. Yet details remain murky, and both sides have repeatedly accused each other of stalling peace efforts....