DR Congo: M23 Rebels Capture Uvira Amid Renewed Violence

Renewed Fighting in Eastern DR Congo

• ⚠️ The situation in eastern DR Congo remains confused, with renewed fighting erupting around the town of Uvira.
• ⚡ M23 rebels, reportedly backed by Rwanda, have been accused of violating a recently signed peace agreement.

M23 Advance on Uvira

• 📌 M23 forces were reported to be entering Uivera, a strategic town near the Burundian border, yesterday evening.
• 💥 Intense fighting has occurred, with reports of artillery fire and suicide drones as M23 forces pushed south from Kamanola.
• 🗣️ The M23 formally announced the capture of Uvira, though the Congolese government has not yet confirmed the fall of the city.

Humanitarian Impact and Displacement

• 🏘️ Congolese forces have retreated south of Uvira, and the town was largely deserted this morning.
• 💔 The latest offensive has had a significant humanitarian impact, with the UN reporting that at least 200,000 people have fled their homes.
• 🇧🇮 Burundi has closed its border due to the escalating situation.