M23 Rebels Seize Bukavu, DRC Amid Escalating Crisis

M23 rebels, backed by Rwanda, have seized control of Bukavu, the capital of South Kivu province in the Democratic Republic of Congo, following a swift advance through the region. The takeover of Bukavu comes after the group's earlier capture of Goma, and they have encountered little resistance from Congolese forces, prompting fears of escalating violence. Local sources report gunfire in the city, and civilians are fleeing as businesses close. Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi condemned Rwanda's involvement, accusing it of expansionist ambitions, while he remains in the country to monitor the situation, forgoing attendance at the African Union summit. The conflict has left over 350,000 people displaced, exacerbating the already dire humanitarian crisis in the region. Regional leaders are calling for an immediate ceasefire amidst concerns of a broader conflict due to the involvement of multiple nations.