Congo Army Recaptures Kalembe from M23 Rebels

The Democratic Republic of Congo's army has recaptured the eastern town of Kalembe from M23 rebels just a day after it fell into insurgent hands. M23, a Tutsi-led group, has been engaged in an insurgency in the region since 2022, with accusations of Rwandan support for the rebels, which Rwanda denies. Despite the army regaining control, fighting continues in nearby areas, leaving many residents displaced due to ongoing hostilities. The conflict has exacerbated a humanitarian crisis in North Kivu, with around 2.6 million people displaced as of late September. M23's interest in the region's gold mines has been highlighted, as they have reportedly profited from illegally smuggling minerals. Ongoing negotiations between Congo and Rwanda are aimed at curbing the violence, taking place in Luanda, Angola.