Summary
Rebels in the Democratic Republic of Congo, known as the M23 group, say they have begun to leave the city of Uvira after pressure from the United States. The DR Congo government remains cautious, calling the withdrawal a potential distraction and stating the situation needs verification. The U.S. accuses Rwanda of supporting the rebels, a claim Rwanda denies.
Key Facts
- M23 rebels claim to have started withdrawing from Uvira, a city in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
- The U.S. pressured the rebels to withdraw and accuses Rwanda of backing them.
- DR Congo’s government is cautious, saying the withdrawal needs confirmation.
- The capture of Uvira by M23 led to U.S. condemnation and threats of sanctions against Rwanda.
- The withdrawal comes after a peace deal in Washington between Rwanda and DR Congo, facilitated by President Trump.
- The UN reports the Uvira offensive displaced more than 200,000 people and wounded at least 100.
- Local sources report mixed observations regarding the withdrawal, with rebel presence still noted.
- M23 is involved in a separate peace process involving Qatar, a U.S. ally.
