M23 Rebels Capture Strategic Airport in Eastern Congo

The M23 rebel group has taken control of a key airport in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, escalating tensions in the region amid ongoing conflict with government forces.

According to the rebel alliance and local sources, rebels from M23, backed by Rwanda, have seized control of Kavumu airport. This strategically important hub serves Bukavu, which is the second-largest city in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo.

The rebels, who took control of Goma last month, are moving southward towards Bukavu, the capital of South Kivu. Their success would represent a significant territorial acquisition and further diminish Kinshasa’s authority in the east.

Kavumu Airport, primarily utilized for military and NGO flights, was effectively shut down as Congolese forces removed their equipment. Additionally, rebels captured Katana—located 11 kilometers from the airport—and Kabamba the previous day. Videos taken by local residents depict armed individuals in military uniforms moving through these towns.

As the conflict escalates, President Felix Tshisekedi is actively seeking international assistance by participating in the Munich Security Conference and subsequently attending the African Union summit in Addis Ababa. Meanwhile, the U.N. has issued a warning about an aggravating humanitarian crisis that has already displaced 350,000 individuals.

In Kinshasa, increased security measures are evident amidst protests against foreign intervention. Protesters have targeted United Nations offices and the embassies of Rwanda, France, the U.S., and Kenya.