U.S. Doubts M23 Rebel Withdrawal in Congo

The United States has publicly questioned whether Rwandan-backed M23 rebels have fully withdrawn from a key town in the Democratic Republic of Congo. U.S. State Department officials stated they are not satisfied with the pullout from the strategic location of Uvira. The town is a crucial hub in the conflict-ridden eastern Congo region. The M23 group had occupied the area for months. Their promised withdrawal was part of a regional de-escalation plan. U.S. officials did not provide specific evidence but emphasized their assessment. They indicated that the rebels' actions do not constitute a complete or credible departure. The statement increases pressure on Rwanda, which is widely accused of supporting the rebel force. Rwanda denies these allegations. Continued M23 presence would violate regional peace agreements. It also threatens to reignite major fighting in central Africa.