Congo M23 Rebels Seize Uvira, Displacing 200,000 Amid Failed Peace Deal

M23 rebels have captured the strategic city of Uvira in eastern Congo. The takeover occurred this past week despite a recent U.S.-brokered peace agreement. The offensive has killed hundreds and forced about 200,000 people to flee their homes.

According to the Associated Press, the city fell after a rapid offensive launched at the start of the month. Uvira was the government’s last major stronghold in South Kivu province, marking a significant expansion of rebel influence across the volatile east.

City Under Siege as Residents Describe Climate of Fear

The situation in Uvira remains tense. Streets are empty and silent apart from military patrols. Banks and businesses are closed. Very few civilians dare to go outside, especially after dark.

Residents report a standstill in daily life and economic activity. A local mother of ten told the Associated Press that people have not resumed normal activities because no money is circulating. Another resident expressed relief that the death toll was not higher compared to other captured cities.

US Peace Accord Collapses as Accusations Fly

The rebel advance directly violates a peace deal signed last week. The agreement was mediated by the United States between the presidents of Congo and Rwanda. It obligated Rwanda to halt support for armed groups like the M23.

The United States has accused Rwanda of violating the accord by backing the new offensive. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated Rwanda’s actions are a clear violation and promised Washington would take action. Congo’s foreign minister has warned the entire peace process is now at stake.

The conflict risks spilling into neighboring Burundi. Reports indicate some civilians have crossed the border and shells have landed on Burundian territory. More than 100 armed groups operate in mineral-rich eastern Congo, creating one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises.

The capture of Uvira by M23 rebels represents a major military and political setback for Congo and its international partners. It casts serious doubt on the viability of regional diplomacy to end a conflict that has already displaced over seven million people.

A quick knowledge drop for you

What is the M23 rebel group?

The M23 is a rebel faction operating in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. It is composed primarily of Congolese Tutsi fighters. The United Nations and Western governments accuse Rwanda of providing the group with troops and weaponry.

Why did the recent U.S. peace deal fail?

The deal did not directly include the M23 rebels as signatories. It required Rwanda to stop supporting armed groups, a condition the U.S. says Kigali has now violated by backing the offensive on Uvira.

How many people have been displaced by this offensive?

Regional officials state about 200,000 people have been displaced across South Kivu province since the start of December. This adds to the over seven million people already displaced by conflicts in eastern Congo.

What is the international community’s response?

The United States has publicly condemned Rwanda and threatened action. Congo has urged the UN Security Council to impose sanctions on Rwandan leaders and ban the country from UN peacekeeping missions.

Why is the city of Uvira strategically important?

Uvira was the last major government-held city in South Kivu province. Its capture allows M23 to consolidate control over a broad corridor of territory, expanding their influence significantly.