President Félix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of Congo on Wednesday met with French President Emmanuel Macron to discuss the escalating conflict in eastern DRC, as clashes intensify between pro-government forces and the M23 rebel group.
Tshisekedi was received at the Élysée Palace, where the two leaders addressed security concerns, humanitarian assistance, and diplomatic efforts aimed at stabilizing the Great Lakes region.
The meeting followed reports of the death of M23 military spokesperson Willy Ngoma, who was allegedly killed in a drone strike near the mining town of Rubaya in North Kivu province.
In a statement posted on X, Tshisekedi reaffirmed France’s commitment to the territorial integrity and sovereignty of the DRC.
Macron said discussions also focused on strengthening bilateral relations and supporting mediation efforts toward a political solution, including a cessation of hostilities and respect for state authority.
Despite an Angola-brokered ceasefire that took effect on February 18, fighting reportedly intensified on Wednesday in parts of Masisi territory in North Kivu, displacing thousands, according to civil society groups.
The Congolese government, the United Nations, and several Western nations have accused Rwanda of backing the M23 rebels – an allegation Kigali has consistently denied.
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