Fears M23 Rebels Seize Key Town, Burundi Shuts Border

Civilians are fleeing new fighting in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. The violence is linked to the Rwanda-backed M23 rebel group. Reports suggest the rebels may have entered the strategic town of Uvira. Uvira sits near the border with Burundi. If confirmed, this would be the group's biggest military advance in months. The situation on the ground remains unclear due to the conflict. However, the potential threat prompted Burundi to immediately close its border with Congo. The M23 group has captured significant territory in Congo's east over the past two years. The DRC government, United Nations, and Western powers accuse Rwanda of backing the rebels, a claim Rwanda denies.