Rwanda-Backed Rebels Escalate Conflict in Eastern Congo, Seizing Major Cities

The M23 rebellion has captured Goma and Bukavu, displacing millions and raising fears of a wider regional war in Central Africa.

The Rwanda-supported M23 rebel group has taken control of Goma and Bukavu, two major cities in eastern Congo, marking a significant escalation in the conflict.
The rebellion has displaced nearly 3 million people over the past 14 months, with thousands fleeing to neighboring countries like Burundi and Rwanda for safety.
Congo’s government accuses Rwanda of deploying thousands of troops to assist the rebels, while Rwanda denies involvement despite evidence from U.N. investigators.
The conflict has disrupted daily life in rebel-held areas, with banking systems shut down, essential services struggling to resume, and residents facing severe economic hardships.
Regional tensions are intensifying, with Burundi and Uganda both deploying troops to the area, while international sanctions and mediation efforts have so far failed to halt the violence.