The Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) have launched a new operation targeting FDLR fighters, underscoring the growing challenge of dismantling the armed group amid a complex security landscape in eastern DR Congo.
The operation, announced on Sunday, is being coordinated from Kisangani in Tshopo Province as part of efforts to implement recent peace commitments reached in Washington.
Military officials say the strategy prioritises voluntary disarmament, encouraging FDLR combatants to surrender, hand over weapons, and be repatriated to Rwanda under security guarantees and international supervision. Kisangani has been designated as the main transit and assembly point for those who surrender or are captured.
FARDC has mobilised three battalions for the mission, including a specialised jungle warfare unit equipped through military cooperation with France, expected to be deployed to North Kivu.
Despite these preparations, the operation faces significant hurdles. Several FDLR strongholds—particularly in Rutshuru, Nyiragongo and Masisi—remain under the control of the AFC/M23 coalition, limiting the army’s access and complicating efforts to neutralise the group. This raises the likelihood that FARDC may first need to regain control of these مناطق before advancing against FDLR positions.
Authorities say the focus on voluntary surrender aims to reduce civilian casualties and avoid escalation in already fragile areas.
The operation is seen as a critical test of FARDC’s ability to restore security in the east and translate diplomatic commitments into tangible results on the ground.
