M23 rebels have advanced into Bukavu, the second-largest city in eastern DR Congo. Corneille Nangaa, leader of the Congo River Alliance, confirmed their entry on Friday and announced further advances. Despite international calls for a ceasefire, the Rwandan-backed group continues its offensive, displacing hundreds of thousands.
Last month, M23 took control of Goma, the region’s main city, prompting accusations from the Congolese government that Rwanda is exploiting the conflict for resource gains—claims Rwanda denies. The rebels previously seized Goma in 2012, but capturing Bukavu marks a significant escalation.
Clashes occurred on Bukavu’s outskirts as government forces and allied militias retreated. Reports indicate 70 bodies were found in a church in Mayba, allegedly killed by ADF rebels. Meanwhile, DR Congo’s President Félix Tshisekedi urged sanctions against Rwanda, accusing it of expansionism and resource exploitation. As African leaders gather for an AU summit, calls for a ceasefire intensify.
