June 12, 2026
The latest setback has unfolded in a rebel-held area of South Kivu province
Conflict, rebel activity, and permit delays slow US access to Congo’s minerals
The mineral-rich region draws focus as M23 and DRC plan Qatar peace deal
M23 has advanced in eastern Congo, seizing the region's two largest cities, Goma and Bukavu
Rwanda has repeatedly denied funding, arming or training M23
An army officer says he is sceptical about the announced withdrawal
The rebel alliance says it is withdrawing from what could have been the two sides' first direct negotiations
Army claims Rwandan troops fired rockets into a Bukavu crowd
