DRC Accuses Rwanda of Civilian Fatalities Following Renewed M23 Offensive. Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo — The government of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has formally accused neighboring Rwanda of involvement in the deaths of more than 1,500 civilians over the last month.
According to official statements, these fatalities occurred following a renewed offensive by the M23 militia in the eastern region of the country, which began in early December.
In a communiqué released on Wednesday, Congolese authorities stated that the reported death toll was compiled using data from civil society organizations, state services, and humanitarian reports.
The government characterized the recent military activity as a violation of international law and a clear act of aggression against its national sovereignty. These developments follow the capture of the key city of Uvira in South Kivu by M23 forces early last month.
Regional officials confirmed that the fall of the city caused tens of thousands of residents to flee across the border into Burundi seeking safety.
This surge in violence occurred shortly after a peace agreement was brokered by the United States on December 4. Official statements indicate that the M23 offensive began only days after the signing of the accord between the DRC and Rwanda.
Furthermore, the Congolese government alleges that three additional Rwandan battalions have entered South Kivu.
