Overview

• The M23 armed group, supported by Rwandan forces, seized Bukavu's airport and entered the outskirts of the city in South Kivu province, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
• This follows the group's rapid capture of Goma in January, consolidating control over key areas near Lake Kivu and along the Rwandan border.
• The Congolese military (FARDC) and allied Burundian troops have retreated, while local civil society urged avoiding urban combat to prevent mass civilian casualties.
• The humanitarian crisis deepens with nearly 3,000 deaths reported and widespread displacement, with UN agencies warning of cholera risks and limited access to aid.
• The African Union and regional leaders have reiterated calls for an unconditional ceasefire, while the DRC government accuses Rwanda of territorial ambitions and mineral exploitation motives.