News|ConflictOver 400 civilians killed in eastern DR Congo as US peace deal faltersGovernment says victims killed by rebels included women and children, accusing Rwanda of breaching a recent truce deal.
## Conflict in the Democratic Republic of the Congo
Conflict in the Democratic Republic of the Congo
Recent escalations in fighting in the South Kivu province of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) have resulted in the deaths of more than 400 civilians. The M23 armed group, reportedly supported by Rwanda, has taken control of the strategic town of Uvira. This action follows a United States-mediated peace agreement, which is currently at risk of unraveling.
The offensive by M23 has led to the displacement of approximately 200,000 civilians. Despite the recent peace agreement between the Congolese and Rwandan presidents, M23 was not included in the accord. The agreement obliges Rwanda to halt support for armed groups and work towards ending hostilities.
According to local authorities, over 413 civilians have been killed by bullets, grenades, and bombs, including women and children. Forces in the region are said to include Rwandan special forces and foreign mercenaries, allegedly in violation of the peace agreements.
The strategic city of Uvira, a crucial port on the northern tip of Lake Tanganyika, has been seized by M23. Despite sporadic gunfire on the outskirts, residents have ventured out in search of food. The city had previously been a base for the provincial government after the capture of Bukavu.
Recent escalations in fighting in the South Kivu province of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) have resulted in the deaths of more than 400 civilians.
The United States and United Nations experts have accused Rwanda of supporting M23, which now reportedly has about 6,500 fighters. While Rwanda denies these allegations, it has acknowledged the presence of its troops and missile systems in the DRC. The UN estimates the presence of up to 4,000 Rwandan soldiers in the region.
The US Department of State has expressed concern over the ongoing violence and has called for the cessation of offensive operations by M23 and the withdrawal of Rwandan forces. Meanwhile, the Rwandan government has blamed Congolese forces for ceasefire violations.
With over 100 armed groups operating in the mineral-rich eastern DRC, the conflict remains a significant humanitarian crisis, displacing more than seven million people. The situation continues to be monitored by international observers.
Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.
