The coalition of AFC/M23 fighters has recaptured various areas in Masisi Territory following intense clashes with the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and their allies.
Information obtained from UMUSEKE indicates that AFC/M23 seized the areas of Luke, Kasenyi, and Katobotobo after fierce fighting with FARDC, FDLR, Burundian troops, foreign mercenaries, and the Wazalendo coalition.
Fighting has lasted for several days as the administration of Félix Tshisekedi seeks to regain control of the Rubaya center and its mines. Reports not yet confirmed by the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo indicate that one of its generals was killed in the fighting. Since early this Thursday, February 26, 2026, heavy fighting has continued in Kazinga, where M23 is attempting to retake the area.
Reports say FARDC is using unmanned aerial vehicles (drones) deployed by mercenaries originating from France. More than 200 mercenaries from France, together with others from Belgium, have established a military base in Walikale, while around 200 others are in Kinshasa and are expected to be deployed to other battle axes. These mercenaries are also reported to have carried out a drone attack in the Rubaya center on Tuesday, which killed Lt Col Willy Ngoma, the Military Spokesperson of AFC/M23.
“Political Spokesperson of the M23 Bertrand Bisimwa, in a message posted on X, stated that the Democratic Republic of the Congo has chosen the path of war.
Tshisekedi administration has sought support from countries including Angola, Malawi, Tanzania, Burundi, and South Africa, as well as mercenaries from France, Belgium, and the United States, and it is also reported that those from Romania have returned to confront M23.
