A major offensive by the Rwandan-backed M23 rebels in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) appears to have stalled after the Congolese army, with Burundian reinforcements, regained control of key villages, according to civil society sources and local officials.
Congolese Forces Push Back M23 Rebels
The Tutsi-led M23 rebels, who recently seized Goma, the capital of North Kivu, had advanced toward Bukavu in South Kivu province, raising fears of an escalating regional conflict. However, their progress was reportedly halted on Friday by Congolese troops, supported by Burundi’s military.
Justin Mulindangabo, a local civil society leader, confirmed that Congo’s army had retaken several villages, including Mukwija, Shanje, Numbi, and Nyamasasa in Kalehe territory, located midway between Goma and Bukavu. Another civil society source reported no ongoing fighting in the area on Saturday morning.
A local official, speaking anonymously for security reasons, stated that the Congolese army had reinforced its position in Kalehe and continued battles elsewhere.
Burundi’s Role in Blocking the M23 Advance
Burundian forces, deployed at Kinshasa’s request, have been supporting Congolese troops to halt M23’s progress. Their presence is particularly strong north of Kavumu, a strategic town 35 km (22 miles) from Bukavu, which houses the region’s main airport and military drones.
Despite repeated allegations, Rwanda denies backing M23 and instead claims it is defending itself against Hutu-led militias in eastern Congo, whom it accuses of planning attacks on Rwandan soil. Congo rejects these claims, arguing that Rwanda is using M23 as a proxy force to exploit mineral-rich territories.
Regional Tensions Mount
The latest escalation has drawn international condemnation and renewed calls for a ceasefire. Burundian President Evariste Ndayishimiye warned that any Rwandan incursion into his country would trigger a wider war.
“We won’t accept it. War will be generalized,” Ndayishimiye declared during a briefing on Friday.
The Rwandan government has not issued an immediate response.
