Heavy fighting erupted in Point-Zero, Fizi Territory, South Kivu, as the Twirwaneho coalition aligned with AFC/M23 shot down three combat drones deployed by the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC).
According to local sources, FARDC-led forces—including Burundian troops, FDLR, Wazalendo militias, and other allied groups, launched coordinated attacks on MRDP-Twirwaneho positions in the afternoon.
Heavy and light weapons were used in the clashes across the hilly terrain. Reports indicate government-backed attacks were repelled, forcing forces to retreat and reassess their strategy.
Following initial setbacks, FARDC deployed small combat drones for reconnaissance and strikes. Twirwaneho intercepted three drones before they could target civilians. At the time of reporting, there were no confirmed casualties or property damage from the drone incidents.
Lawrence Kanyuka, spokesperson for AFC/M23, accused FARDC of violating the recently declared ceasefire via X, warning that such attacks undermine peace agreements and could derail ongoing diplomatic negotiations.
The clashes come just days before a truce brokered by João Lourenço was set to take effect on February 18, 2026. Shifts in military deployments were also reported, with elements of the DRC Presidential Guard moving toward Kalemie, signaling possible reorganization of front-line positions.
The resurgence of fighting highlights persistent insecurity in eastern DRC, even as diplomatic channels work to implement a lasting ceasefire. Government attacks in Minembwe, home to the Banyamulenge community, underscore the ongoing volatility despite recent peace initiatives.
