Sat Feb 15 17:44:11 UTC 2025: ## Rwanda-backed Rebels Advance on Bukavu, Eastern Congo
**Bukavu, Democratic Republic of Congo – February 16, 2025** – The M23 rebel group, backed by Rwandan troops, continues its advance in eastern Congo, sparking widespread fear and displacement. Following a night of heavy gunfire, M23 fighters reached the outskirts of Bukavu, Congo’s second-largest city, on Saturday. Shops remained closed and families sheltered indoors as the rebels pressed their offensive.
This marks a significant escalation of the conflict, with the rebels controlling more territory than ever before. The M23, one of over 100 armed groups vying for control of Congo’s mineral-rich east, captured Goma last month and now threatens Bukavu, a city of approximately 1.3 million people. The rebels claimed to have seized a second airport in the region on Friday.
The ongoing violence has already caused a humanitarian crisis. The UN estimates that at least 2,000 people have been killed in and around Goma, and 350,000 people are internally displaced, many without shelter. The UN refugee agency reports that shelling and looting have destroyed 70,000 emergency shelters.
The Congolese government accuses the M23 of violating ceasefire agreements and attacking Congolese troops. M23 spokesperson Lawrence Kanyuka justified the seizure of Kavumu airport, claiming it posed a threat to civilians. However, the Congolese military, hampered by training and coordination issues and corruption, has struggled to contain the rebel advance.
International concern is growing, with the African Union summit expected to address the conflict this weekend. Congolese President Félix Tshisekedi continues to urge international intervention, but progress remains limited. Meanwhile, civilians are fleeing Bukavu, fearing further bloodshed. The situation remains volatile and deeply concerning.
First Piper 