Rwanda-backed rebels have occupied a second major city in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Bukavu, with little resistance from government forces. The M23 rebels, who have been supported by about 4,000 troops from neighboring Rwanda, entered the city following a dayslong march from Goma, another major city they seized last month.
The occupation has raised fears of regional escalation and created concerns over the risk of a humanitarian crisis. The conflict in eastern Congo has displaced over 6 million people, making it one of the largest humanitarian crises in the world.
M23 leaders have vowed to “clean up” disorder left over from the old regime, sparking fears that they may be seeking political power rather than just controlling mineral resources. The rebels are supported by Rwanda, which denies involvement but has a powerful military.
The international community has been reluctant to take decisive action against M23 or Rwanda, with most calling for a ceasefire and dialogue between Congo and the rebels. African leaders have also been cautious in their response, with some suggesting that Burundi would not retaliate in the fighting.
The occupation of Bukavu is a significant development in the ongoing conflict in eastern Congo, which has ties to a decades-long ethnic conflict. The M23 says it is defending ethnic Tutsis, while Rwanda claims they are being persecuted by Hutus and former militias responsible for the 1994 genocide.
Source: https://apnews.com/article/congo-m23-rebels-bukavu-southkivu-14527185304baa9a5e40eff4cfccba85