M23 rebels advance into strategic city of Bukavu in eastern Congo

M23 rebels, backed by Rwanda, have been spotted in the center of Bukavu, eastern Congo's second-largest city. This follows their recent capture of Goma, marking a significant territorial gain for the group. Local sources confirmed the presence of M23 in Bukavu, with a spokesperson for the militia stating, "we are there." The Congolese army has not yet commented on the situation. The M23's advance into Bukavu represents a major escalation in their control of eastern DRC, which has been ongoing since their resurgence in 2022.