Rwanda-Backed M23 Rebels Seize Key Cities in Eastern Congo

The UN Security Council demands Rwanda withdraw troops as the conflict intensifies, displacing tens of thousands and worsening a humanitarian crisis.

The M23 rebel group, reportedly supported by 4,000 Rwandan soldiers, has captured Goma and Bukavu, two major cities in eastern Congo, and is advancing toward Uvira.
The United Nations Security Council unanimously called on Rwanda to withdraw its forces from Congo and cease support for the M23 rebels without preconditions.
The conflict has displaced over 50,000 people, forcing many to flee to neighboring countries such as Burundi and Uganda, according to the United Nations.
The Congolese military has struggled to resist the M23 offensive, with reports of retreating soldiers looting and abandoning their posts, leaving civilians vulnerable.
The United States, European Union, and other international actors have imposed sanctions and summoned Rwandan officials, urging diplomatic talks to resolve the escalating crisis.