M23 Rebels Seize Uvira Amid Escalating Tensions in Eastern Congo

Rebel group M23 has claimed control over the strategic city of Uvira in eastern Congo following a swift offensive. This development takes place despite a recent US-mediated peace agreement. The conflict has displaced over 7 million people and raised concerns of regional spillover, particularly into Burundi.

In a startling development, the Rwanda-backed rebel group M23 has announced its takeover of the strategic city of Uvira in eastern Congo. The announcement, made on social media by M23 spokesperson Lawrence Kanyuka, urged residents to return home even as confusion persisted over the current state of control.

The city of Uvira, vital due to its position as a major port on Lake Tanganyika and its proximity to Burundi's capital, witnessed chaotic scenes as reports emerged of Congolese military forces retreating amid gunfire. Congolese officials have yet to verify the claims that M23 controls the city.

This seizure is occurring despite a US-mediated peace agreement aimed at quelling ongoing violence. More than 7 million people have been displaced by the conflict involving over 100 armed groups in mineral-rich eastern Congo, and fears are mounting about potential spillover into neighboring Burundi.

(With inputs from agencies.)