Rwanda-backed rebels are advancing on the third major city in eastern Congo, residents said Tuesday. The M23 is targeting Butembo, a city of 150,000 people, about 210 kilometers north of Goma, which was seized last month after 3,000 deaths.
The advance means the rebels are now spanning both north and south of Goma, with recent captures in Bukavu and Kamanyola. The region is rich in gold and coltan, a key mineral for electronics production.
Analysts say the M23’s true intentions are unclear, but their actions appear to be driven by a desire for control and resources. Rwanda has denied accusations of supporting the rebels, while Uganda has sent troops into eastern Congo to combat violence by armed groups.
The situation is concerning human rights groups, with reports of children being killed and humanitarian aid being attacked. The U.N. Human Rights Council has launched a commission to investigate atrocities committed by both sides in 2023.
Source: https://apnews.com/article/congo-un-children-killed-bukavu-rebels-0b72da70e3e96b1c100812443fc3201a