# Rwanda and DRC regional security conflict

> Developing situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/rwanda-and-drc-regional-security-conflict
> Updated: 2026-11-03T23:39:27.000Z. Sources: 2. Developments: 2.

In October 2026, Rwandan President Paul Kagame met with an African Union peace panel in Kigali to discuss the peace process in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). The panel, which included former presidents from Ethiopia, Kenya, and Botswana, emphasized the need for political dialogue, the protection of civilians, and respect for the sovereignty of the DRC.

By November 2026, President Kagame acknowledged military engagements in the DRC, stating that Rwandan forces had faced a coalition in Goma and Bukavu comprising the FARDC, Wazalendo, Burundian troops, South African forces, FDLR, and mercenaries. While Kagame claimed victory in these encounters, critics argue his statements confirm that Rwandan troops conducted warfare on Congolese soil, contradicting previous official denials of involvement in the region.

## Timeline

### 2026-11-03: Rwanda President Paul Kagame acknowledges military operations in DRC

President Paul Kagame has acknowledged that Rwandan forces fought a coalition including the FARDC and regional allies in Goma and Bukavu, marking a shift from previous denials of military involvement in the DRC

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/rwanda-president-paul-kagame-acknowledges-military-operations-in-drc

### 2026-10-07: Paul Kagame meets AU peace panel regarding DRC security

Rwandan President Paul Kagame met with an African Union panel of former presidents to discuss peace processes and security in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/paul-kagame-meets-au-peace-panel-regarding-drc-security

---
Cite as: Rwanda and DRC regional security conflict. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/rwanda-and-drc-regional-security-conflict