Rwandan-backed rebels advance near Bukavu as fears of violence grow in Congo

Rwandan-backed M23 rebels have advanced to the outskirts of Bukavu, Congo's second-largest city, raising fears of new massacres. A recent UN report highlighted alarming levels of sexual violence, including hundreds of rapes, as residents flee the violence. Congolese troops have retreated from Bukavu, leading to widespread looting and reports of civilian deaths from stray bullets. The M23 rebels have also claimed control of Kavumu airport, previously used by government forces for resupply. The conflict has resulted in nearly 3,000 deaths and over 350,000 people displaced. Regional leaders are concerned about the potential for the violence to spread beyond Congo's borders, with discussions planned at the upcoming African Union summit.