The AFC/M23 rebellion, which maintains control over extensive territories in the Nord-Kivu and Sud-Kivu provinces, continues to receive substantial military backing from the Rwandan Defense Forces (RDF) for its operations and the consolidation of its positions across the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. This persistent support, involving over 10,000 Rwandan soldiers, shows no significant signs of withdrawal, according to a recent report from the United Nations Group of Experts.

The UN Group of Experts, whose findings were submitted to the Security Council Committee on May 8, 2026, and subsequently reviewed on June 5, 2026, has meticulously documented the continued presence of RDF personnel and the arrival of reinforcements in both Nord-Kivu and Sud-Kivu. The report highlights the RDF’s active involvement on various fronts, leveraging advanced military technologies, state-of-the-art equipment, and sophisticated aerial warfare capabilities. This includes the deployment of drones, electronic warfare tools, and specialized forces, providing sustained operational assistance to the AFC/M23.

Furthermore, the report casts doubt on Kigali’s justification of