The war in Eastern Congo has entered a critical new phase. M23 rebels have pushed into the strategic town of Uvira, shattering a fragile peace deal.
This offensive comes less than a week after a high-profile agreement was signed in Washington. Sources describe the attack as the most significant escalation in months.
The breach is a major blow to Kinshasa. Uvira sits on the shores of Lake Tanganyika . It has served as the government’s regional military base since the provincial capital, Bukavu, fell in February.
Diplomacy Disconnected from Reality
The violence contrasts sharply with recent diplomatic efforts.
Just days ago, Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame met with U.S. President Donald Trump. All parties pledged to end hostilities. However, the situation on the ground tells a different story.
“The violence in Uvira shows that merely signing deals in Washington is not enough to ensure the safety of civilians in eastern Congo,” said Lewis Mudge, Central Africa director for Human Rights Watch.
Confusion and Gunfire
Conflicting reports surround the current status of the city.
Lawrence Kanyuka, a rebel spokesperson, declared on social media that Uvira is now “liberated.” Conversely, Burundi’s Foreign Minister, Edouard Bizimana, insisted the city “has not yet fallen.”
On the ground, residents report active shooting. Locals have been ordered to stay indoors while rebel forces clear out pockets of resistance. A Congolese government source claimed the military held back fire to protect civilians.
The Blame Game Intensifies
Diplomatic channels are now filled with accusations.
Congo’s Foreign Minister, Therese Kayikwamba Wagner, demanded action from the United States. She called for targeted sanctions on Rwandan military commanders to “restore the credibility” of the mediation process.
“It is not enough to condemn. It is not enough to be preoccupied or to be concerned,” Wagner asserted.
Rwanda vehemently denies backing the M23. Foreign Minister Olivier Nduhungirehe rejected the call for sanctions. Instead, he accused the Congolese army of collaborating with Burundi. Rwanda alleges that Burundi has deployed nearly 20,000 troops to aid the Congolese government.
A Humanitarian Crisis
Civilians are paying a heavy price for this conflict.
The United Nations reports that approximately 200,000 people have fled their homes in just the last few days. Scores of civilians have died in the crossfire.
Observers warn of further instability. If M23 consolidates control over Uvira, it could open a corridor for them to advance well beyond South Kivu.
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