M23 Rebels Seize Key City in Eastern DR Congo Amid Rising Tensions

Rwanda-backed M23 rebels have reportedly entered the eastern DR Congo city of Uvira, an essential military base located near the borders of Burundi and Rwanda. This unforeseen advancement has triggered panic among residents, forcing thousands to flee in fear. Witnesses stated that the M23 forces marched in without opposition, declaring they had “liberated” the city, although local officials maintained that government troops still controlled the area.

This military incursion comes just days after a US-brokered peace deal between Congolese President Félix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame, which the rebels’ actions appear to undermine. The Burundian government has subsequently closed its borders, expressing concerns about a potential massacre. Reports from locals indicate a scenario rife with explosions, lockdown conditions, and widespread chaos.

Regional tensions have significantly escalated, as the US, EU, and several European nations have accused Rwanda of facilitating the M23 rebels, a claim that Rwanda has vehemently denied. Instead, Rwanda has countered by accusing DR Congo and Burundi of breaching the ceasefire agreement.

Recent reports from UN officials indicate intense shelling in the area, with at least 74 deaths and approximately 200,000 people displaced due to the ongoing fighting. More than 30,000 individuals have fled to Burundi alone, highlighting the urgent humanitarian crisis that is unfolding in the region. This offensive follows earlier rebel takeovers of the strategic cities of Goma and Bukavu, amplifying President Tshisekedi’s accusations against Rwanda for allegedly waging a proxy war over the mineral-rich territory in this historically troubled region.

As the situation develops, the international community watches closely, raising concerns about the future stability of Eastern DR Congo and the implications of regional alliances on broader security frameworks. The unfolding humanitarian crisis necessitates urgent attention and action to protect the civilian population and facilitate a path toward lasting peace.

By Newsroom
Axadle Times international–Monitoring.