M23 Rebels Near Key Congo City, Raising Regional War Fears.
Rwandan-backed M23 rebels have advanced within 20-25 kilometers of Bukavu, the capital of South Kivu province in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, sparking fears of expanded conflict.
India warned its citizens in Bukavu to leave immediately through available routes, including airports and border crossings. The embassy advised them to keep identity documents ready and prepare emergency supplies.
The rebels' approach to Bukavu threatens both Congo's stability and peace across the Great Lakes region. Military experts warn that capturing the city would enable M23 to link with RED-Tabara rebels, who launch attacks into Burundi from South Kivu bases.
Burundian President Évariste Ndayishimiye accused Rwanda of arming rebels and training Burundian refugees. In a January 31 speech to diplomats, he said, "If Rwanda continues to make conquests in the territory and in our country, it will also arrive in Burundi. " He promised Burundi would fight back.
The crisis extends beyond immediate neighbors. "We have a threat in the region. It's not just Burundi. Tanzania, Uganda, Kenya—the whole region is concerned," Ndayishimiye said. He pointed to South African troops fighting in eastern Congo as proof of the conflict's broad impact.
Rwanda denies supporting either rebel group. Relations between Rwanda and Burundi remained strained after Burundi closed their shared border in January 2024, citing Rwanda's alleged rebel support.
The situation threatens recent diplomatic progress between the countries. Without swift international action, the crisis risks pulling more nations into armed conflict.
Rwandan-backed M23 rebels have advanced within 20-25 kilometers of Bukavu, the capital of South Kivu province in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, sparking fears of expanded conflict.
India warned its citizens in Bukavu to leave immediately through available routes, including airports and border crossings. The embassy advised them to keep identity documents ready and prepare emergency supplies.
The rebels' approach to Bukavu threatens both Congo's stability and peace across the Great Lakes region. Military experts warn that capturing the city would enable M23 to link with RED-Tabara rebels, who launch attacks into Burundi from South Kivu bases.
Burundian President Évariste Ndayishimiye accused Rwanda of arming rebels and training Burundian refugees. In a January 31 speech to diplomats, he said, "If Rwanda continues to make conquests in the territory and in our country, it will also arrive in Burundi. " He promised Burundi would fight back.
The crisis extends beyond immediate neighbors. "We have a threat in the region. It's not just Burundi. Tanzania, Uganda, Kenya—the whole region is concerned," Ndayishimiye said. He pointed to South African troops fighting in eastern Congo as proof of the conflict's broad impact.
Rwanda denies supporting either rebel group. Relations between Rwanda and Burundi remained strained after Burundi closed their shared border in January 2024, citing Rwanda's alleged rebel support.
The situation threatens recent diplomatic progress between the countries. Without swift international action, the crisis risks pulling more nations into armed conflict.
