The March 23 Movement (M23), a major rebel group in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, has suspended its participation in peace talks with the Congolese government, accusing it of violating a ceasefire signed last month. A Qatari brokered deal set for 18 August, collapsed after both sides accused each other of breaching the truce. The setback also threatens the U.S. mediated “Washington Accord” between DR Congo and Rwanda, as Kinshasa and several Western countries allege Rwanda backs M23. The deadlock raises the risk of renewed escalation in a conflict that has already killed thousands and displaced hundreds of thousands.