Congolese President Félix Tshisekedi has excluded the M23 armed group from upcoming peace talks aimed at resolving conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. This decision comes amid ongoing clashes between M23 and the Congolese army, along with other armed groups, in the North Kivu province. President Tshisekedi maintains that M23's continued aggression disqualifies them from participating in discussions intended to foster reconciliation. The move aims to pressure the group to cease hostilities and disarm. Regional efforts to mediate the conflict continue, but the exclusion of M23 represents a significant obstacle to a comprehensive peace agreement. Concerns remain regarding the group’s alleged support from Rwanda, accusations Rwanda denies, further complicating the situation. The peace process will now proceed without direct M23 representation, focusing on other actors involved in the instability.