Overview
- Local and security sources reported M23 police and plain-clothed agents still deployed in Uvira despite the group’s pledge to withdraw.
- M23 leaders say they are ready to leave if conditions are met, including demilitarization, civilian protection, and deployment of a neutral monitoring force.
- Kinshasa dismissed the withdrawal announcement as a diversion and said clashes continue daily across North Kivu and South Kivu.
- Washington condemned the Uvira takeover as a breach of its peace accord, with officials warning of consequences and analysts citing potential sanctions that could target Rwandan institutions and gold exports.
- UNHCR said more than 84,000 people have crossed into Burundi this month, overwhelming reception capacity, with reports of dire conditions and at least one deadly boat capsize on Lake Tanganyika.