FDLR Warns of Rwanda False-Flag Plot to Justify DRC Invasion

FDLR warns Rwanda is planning false-flag attacks to justify its illegal presence in eastern DRC. Group urges international vigilance amid fragile peace process.

12/18/25, 3:09 PM

Written By |

Serge Kitoko Tshibanda

Political Analyst

Serge Kitoko Tshibanda

RUTSHURU, DRC (Dec 17, 2025) – The Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR) has issued a preventive alert accusing the Rwandan government of orchestrating a false-flag operation intended to justify its illegal military presence in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

In a statement addressed to the governments of Congo, Burundi, the United States, and the broader international community, the FDLR alleges that Kigali is preparing attacks on its own soil, which it plans to blame on the FDLR in order to tarnish the group’s image and manufacture a pretext for continued aggression in eastern DRC.

These attacks are designed to create the illusion of a threat posed by the FDLR and to legitimize Rwanda’s military presence on Congolese territory,” said Cure Ngoma, FDLR spokesperson.

Claims of Manipulated Youth, Fake Defections

The FDLR alleges that young recruits, formerly associated with the group but now under Rwandan control, are being used as instruments in this disinformation campaign. The group claims these individuals were coerced and indoctrinated, lured by false promises of safe repatriation and high-ranking positions in Rwanda.

These same individuals were behind recent attacks in Walikale, carried out under Rwandan military command,” the communiqué states. The FDLR warns of a second phase of operations planned on Rwandan soil, which it says is part of a pre-arranged campaign to discredit the group internationally.

Reaffirming Commitment to Peaceful Dialogue

The FDLR insists it remains committed to peaceful reintegration into Rwandan society through inclusive intra-Rwandan dialogue.

We have no intention of attacking Congo or any other state,” the group asserts, adding that its efforts to engage with international actors, such as MONUSCO, have been systematically blocked.

Urgent Appeal to Prevent Escalation

Calling the situation “grave,” the FDLR appeals to both national and international stakeholders to exercise immediate vigilance, ensure transparency, and prevent what it describes as a deliberately provoked and artificial escalation.

“Our cause is just, our determination intact,” the statement concludes.

The communiqué was signed in Rutshuru on December 17, 2025, by Cure Ngoma, FDLR Information Commissioner and official spokesperson.

Context: Accusations Amid a Fragile Peace Process

The FDLR’s statement comes at a time of heightened regional tension. Amid the U.S.-brokered Washington Accords and Doha peace process, multiple actors, including Rwanda, M23 rebels, FARDC, and regional militias, are vying for control and narrative dominance in eastern Congo.

While Kigali accuses the FDLR of posing a persistent threat to its national security, this communiqué flips that narrative, accusing Rwanda of fabricating attacks to justify cross-border interventions.

To read the full Press release, open this ➡️ Link