In the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, Rwandan-backed M23 rebels have entered Bukavu, the second-largest city of the country.
The rebels faced little resistance from government forces. The capture follows their takeover of Goma in late January, further weakening Kinshasa’s control in the region.
Meanwhile, the Congolese government accused Rwanda of deploying troops in Bukavu and pursuing an agenda of occupation, looting, and human rights violations. Rwanda denied the allegations, claiming its actions targeted Hutu militias aligned with Congolese forces.
The rapid rebel advance has heightened fears of a broader regional conflict, rooted in historical tensions from the 1990s Rwandan genocide. The UK warned that the escalation could have devastating humanitarian consequences.
According to the United Nations, Bukavu residents reported seeing M23 troops in central areas with no signs of clashes, unlike the violence during Goma’s capture, which left 3,000 dead.
