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Line 4: \| width = \| partof = the [[Kivu conflict]] \| image = ~~Mutwanga,~~M23 ~~Nord-Kivu,~~Offensive ~~PHOTO DU JOUR DU JEUDI 28 AVRIL 2022~~Map.~~jpg~~svg \| caption = Military situation as of 10 August 2024 ~~\| caption = [[MONUSCO]] [[United Nations peacekeeping\|peacekeepers]] on patrol near [[Mutwanga Hydroelectric Power Station\|Mutwanga]], North Kivu, 28 April 2022~~ {{leftlegend\|#ff2800\|Controlled by [[March 23 Movement]] and Nyatura's militia}} {{leftlegend\|white\|Controlled by [[Land Forces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo]] and allied militias}} {{leftlegend\|green\| [[Wazalendo]] militia fighting}} \| date = 27 March 2022 – ''present'' <br/> ({{Age in years, months, weeks and days\|day1=27\|month1=03\|year1=2022}}) \| place = [[North Kivu]], [[Democratic Republic of the Congo]] (DRC) Line 14 ⟶ 17: \| combatant1 = [[March 23 Movement]]<br />{{flag\|Rwanda}}{{efn\|Rwandan involvement was first alleged by the DR Congo,<ref name="BBC 30 March">{{cite news \|title=M23 rebels in DR Congo deny shooting down UN helicopter \|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-60926185 \|work=BBC \|date=30 March 2022 \|access-date=13 June 2022 \|archive-date=23 April 2022 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220423045957/https://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-60926185 \|url-status=live }}</ref> a claim which was later substantiated by the findings of researchers tasked by the [[United Nations]].<ref name="RadioOkapi4">{{cite web \|url=https://www.radiookapi.net/2022/08/05/actualite/revue-de-presse/tempete-des-tropiques-soutien-militaire-au-m23-lonu-enfonce-le \|title=Tempête des tropiques : " Soutien militaire au M23, l'ONU enfonce le Rwanda " \|work=RadioOkapi \|date=5 August 2022 \|access-date=19 August 2022 \|archive-date=19 August 2022 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220819161401/https://www.radiookapi.net/2022/08/05/actualite/revue-de-presse/tempete-des-tropiques-soutien-militaire-au-m23-lonu-enfonce-le \|url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="VOA aiding">{{cite web \|url=https://www.voaafrica.com/a/rwanda-inside-drc-aiding-m23---report/6686811.html \|title=Rwanda Inside DRC, Aiding M23 - Report \|work=VOA \|date=4 August 2022 \|access-date=19 August 2022 \|archive-date=20 August 2022 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220820173449/https://www.voaafrica.com/a/rwanda-inside-drc-aiding-m23---report/6686811.html \|url-status=live }}</ref> Rwanda has denied its support for M23.<ref name="BBC 30 March" /> }}<br />'''Supported by:'''<br />{{flag\|Uganda}} (June 2022; alleged by DR Congo)<ref name="reuters 13 June">{{cite news \|title=Congo rebels seize eastern border town, local activists say \|url=https://www.reuters.com/world/africa/congo-rebels-seize-key-eastern-border-town-local-activists-say-2022-06-13/ \|author=Djaffar Sabiti \|work=Reuters \|date=13 June 2022 \|access-date=13 June 2022 \|archive-date=13 June 2022 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220613090427/https://www.reuters.com/world/africa/congo-rebels-seize-key-eastern-border-town-local-activists-say-2022-06-13/ \|url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="monitor3">{{cite news \|title=Fresh fighting erupts in Bunagana \|url=https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/fresh-fighting-erupts-in-bunagana-3851364 \|author=Robert Muhereza \|work=Daily Monitor \|date=17 June 2022 \|access-date=13 June 2022 \|archive-date=17 June 2022 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220617085252/https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/fresh-fighting-erupts-in-bunagana-3851364 \|url-status=live }}</ref> ---- [[Nyatura-Jean- Marie ~~Nyatura]]'s militia~~<ref name="Nyatura">{{cite web \|url=https://www.radiookapi.net/2022/07/16/actualite/securite/masisi-deplacement-de-la-population-la-suite-des-affrontements-entre \|title=Masisi : déplacement de la population à la suite des affrontements entre deux factions de Nyatura à Bashali Mukoto \|work=RadioOkapi \|date=16 July 2022 \|access-date=20 July 2022 \|archive-date=19 July 2022 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220719224741/https://www.radiookapi.net/2022/07/16/actualite/securite/masisi-deplacement-de-la-population-la-suite-des-affrontements-entre \|url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="Etahoben1">{{cite web \|title=Rwandan Soldier Surrenders To UN In DR Congo \|url=https://humanglemedia.com/rwandan-soldier-surrenders-to-un-in-dr-congo/ \|author=Bisong Etahoben \|work=HumAngle \|date=7 November 2022 \|access-date=7 January 2023 \|archive-date=2 December 2022 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221202135210/https://humanglemedia.com/rwandan-soldier-surrenders-to-un-in-dr-congo/ \|url-status=live }}</ref> \| combatant2 = {{flag\|DR Congo}}<br />{{flagicon\|United Nations}} [[MONUSCO]] * {{flag\|Pakistan}}<ref name="BBC 30 March" /> Line 27 ⟶ 30: {{flag\|Kenya}} (from November 2022)<ref name="news24">{{cite news \|title=Kenya to deploy army to eastern DRC to fight M23 rebels \|url=https://www.news24.com/news24/africa/news/kenya-to-deploy-army-to-eastern-drc-to-fight-m23-rebels-20221102 \|access-date=2 November 2022 \|agency=news24 \|date=2 November 2022 \|archive-date=2 November 2022 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221102061959/https://www.news24.com/news24/africa/news/kenya-to-deploy-army-to-eastern-drc-to-fight-m23-rebels-20221102 \|url-status=live }}</ref> {{flag\|South Sudan}} (from December 2022)<ref name="VoA South Sudan">{{cite news \|last1=Ponnie \|first1=Sheila \|title=South Sudan Sends 750 Troops to DRC \|url=https://www.voanews.com/a/south-sudan-sends-750-troops-to-drc/6895421.html \|access-date=30 December 2022 \|publisher=Voice of America \|date=28 December 2022 \|archive-date=29 December 2022 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221229140235/https://www.voanews.com/a/south-sudan-sends-750-troops-to-drc/6895421.html \|url-status=live }}</ref> {{flagicon image\|Flag_of_SADC.svg}} [[Southern African Development Community\|SADC]] [[SADC Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo\|Mission in DRC]]<ref>{{cite web \| url=https://www.theeastafrican.co.ke/tea/news/east-africa/drc-signs-an-agreement-for-the-deployment-of-sadc-troops--4437868 \| title=DRC signs deal for SADC troops deployment \| date=18 November 2023 \| access-date=9 December 2023 \| archive-date=9 December 2023 \| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231209112457/https://www.theeastafrican.co.ke/tea/news/east-africa/drc-signs-an-agreement-for-the-deployment-of-sadc-troops--4437868 \| url-status=live }}</ref><br>{{flagicon image\|Flagge FDLR.svg}} [[Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda\|FDLR]]<ref name="VOA aiding" /><ref name="africa news 23 May">{{cite news \|title=DR Congo: UN condemns M23 rebel attacks on peacekeeping force in North Kivu \|url=https://www.africanews.com/2022/05/23/dr-congo-un-condemns-m23-rebel-attacks-on-peacekeeping-force-in-north-kivu/ \|work=Africa News \|date=23 May 2022 \|access-date=13 June 2022 \|archive-date=21 June 2022 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220621073501/https://www.africanews.com/2022/05/23/dr-congo-un-condemns-m23-rebel-attacks-on-peacekeeping-force-in-north-kivu/ \|url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="HRW">{{cite web \|title=DR Congo: Civilians at Risk Amid Resurgence of M23 Rebels \|url=https://reliefweb.int/report/democratic-republic-congo/dr-congo-civilians-risk-amid-resurgence-m23-rebels \|work=HRW \|date=1 June 2022 \|access-date=13 June 2022 \|archive-date=12 June 2022 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220612113751/https://reliefweb.int/report/democratic-republic-congo/dr-congo-civilians-risk-amid-resurgence-m23-rebels \|url-status=live }}</ref><br> [[Wazalendo]]: [[Nduma Defense of Congo-Renovated]] Pro-government [[Mai-Mai]]<ref name="Bahati">{{cite web \|title=Rwanda: New Footage Suggests FDLR Fighting Alongside DR Congo Army \|url=https://allafrica.com/stories/202211240059.html \|author=Moise M. Bahati \|work=The New Times \|date=22 November 2022 \|access-date=7 January 2023 \|archive-date=28 November 2022 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221128160834/https://allafrica.com/stories/202211240059.html \|url-status=live }}</ref>~~<br>~~ Pro-government Nyatura factions<ref name="Bahati" />~~<br>~~ [[Alliance of Patriots for a Free and Sovereign Congo\|APCLS]]<ref name="DefensePost">{{cite web \|title=M23 Rebels' Vow to Retreat at Odds With Hazy Reality in DR Congo \|url=https://www.thedefensepost.com/2023/01/06/m23-rebels-retreat-dr-congo/ \|work=The Defense Post \|date=6 January 2023 \|access-date=7 January 2023 \|archive-date=7 January 2023 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230107003750/https://www.thedefensepost.com/2023/01/06/m23-rebels-retreat-dr-congo/ \|url-status=live }}</ref> \| commander1 = [[Bertrand Bisimwa]]<ref name="Karuhanga">{{cite news \|title=Rwanda Will Not Be Drawn Into Intra-Congo Conflict - Govt Spokesperson \|url=https://allafrica.com/stories/202205270125.html \|author=James Karuhanga \|work=The New Times \|date=26 May 2022 \|access-date=13 June 2022 \|archive-date=13 June 2022 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220613134833/https://allafrica.com/stories/202205270125.html \|url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="Etahoben">{{cite news \|title=M23 Rebel Movement Hands Over Captured DR Congo Soldiers To Red Cross \|url=https://humanglemedia.com/m23-rebel-movement-hands-over-captured-dr-congo-soldiers-to-red-cross/ \|author=Bisong Etahoben \|work=HumAngle \|date=15 April 2022 \|access-date=13 June 2022 \|archive-date=9 August 2022 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220809221506/https://humanglemedia.com/m23-rebel-movement-hands-over-captured-dr-congo-soldiers-to-red-cross/ \|url-status=live }}</ref><br />[[Sultani Makenga]]{{WIA}}<ref name="schlindwein" /><ref name="RadioOkapi2">{{cite web \|url=https://www.radiookapi.net/2022/06/27/actualite/revue-de-presse/le-potentiel-paix-durable-dans-lest-felix-tshisekedi-la-voie \|title=Le Potentiel : " Paix durable dans l'Est : Félix Tshisekedi : « La voie diplomatique demeure l'option idéale et privilégiée " \|work=RadioOkapi \|date=27 June 2022 \|access-date=30 June 2022 \|archive-date=30 June 2022 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220630185632/https://www.radiookapi.net/2022/06/27/actualite/revue-de-presse/le-potentiel-paix-durable-dans-lest-felix-tshisekedi-la-voie \|url-status=live }}</ref><br>[[Yusuf Mboneza]] (allegedly killed)<ref name="RadioOkapi2" /><ref name="umuseke">{{cite web \|url=https://umuseke.rw/2023/01/ibyihariye-kuri-brig-gen-mboneza-nimero-ya-kabiri-mu-ndwanyi-za-m23/ \|title=Ibyihariye kuri Brig Gen Mboneza nimero ya kabiri mu ndwanyi za M23 \|work=Umuseke \|date=14 January 2023 \|access-date=14 January 2023 \|archive-date=14 January 2023 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230114080024/https://umuseke.rw/2023/01/ibyihariye-kuri-brig-gen-mboneza-nimero-ya-kabiri-mu-ndwanyi-za-m23/ \|url-status=live }}</ref><br>Léon Kanyamibwa<ref name="RadioOkapi3" /> \| commander2 = {{flagicon\|DR Congo}} [[Félix Tshisekedi]]<ref name="HRW" /><br />([[President of the Democratic Republic of the Congo\|President of DR Congo]])<br />{{flagicon\|DR Congo}} Peter Cirimwami Nkuba<ref name="RadioOkapi3">{{cite web \|url=https://www.radiookapi.net/2022/07/07/actualite/securite/rdc-changement-la-tete-du-commandement-militaire-au-nord-kivu-et-en \|title=RDC : changement à la tête du commandement militaire au Nord-Kivu et en Ituri \|work=RadioOkapi \|date=7 July 2022 \|access-date=7 July 2022 \|archive-date=7 July 2022 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220707133905/https://www.radiookapi.net/2022/07/07/actualite/securite/rdc-changement-la-tete-du-commandement-militaire-au-nord-kivu-et-en \|url-status=live }}</ref><br/>("Sokola 2/Nord-Kivu" commander until 6 July)<br/>{{flagicon\|DR Congo}} Clément Bitangalo Bulime<ref name="RadioOkapi3" /><br/>("Sokola 2/Nord-Kivu" commander from 6 July)<br/>{{flagicon\|DR Congo}} Philémon Yav Irung<ref name="RadioOkapi3" /><br/>(32nd Military Region commander)<br/>{{flagicon\|DR Congo}} [[Constant Ndima Kongba]]<ref>{{cite news \|title=The military governor receives food from the FEC/North Kivu for the FARDC \|url=https://acpcongo.com/index.php/2022/06/01/the-military-governor-receives-food-from-the-fec-north-kivu-for-the-fardc/ \|work=APC \|date=1 June 2022 \|access-date=13 June 2022 \|archive-date=9 June 2022 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220609070613/https://acpcongo.com/index.php/2022/06/01/the-military-governor-receives-food-from-the-fec-north-kivu-for-the-fardc/ \|url-status=live }}</ref><br />(North Kivu military governor)<br />{{flagicon\|DR Congo}} Muhindo Lwanzo<ref>{{cite news \|title=Fresh Clashes Between Army, M23 Rebels in DR Congo's East \|url=https://www.thedefensepost.com/2022/04/06/clashes-army-m23-dr-congo/ \|work=Defense Post \|date=6 April 2022 \|access-date=13 June 2022 \|archive-date=13 June 2022 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220613123222/https://www.thedefensepost.com/2022/04/06/clashes-army-m23-dr-congo/ \|url-status=live }}</ref><br />(Rutshuru Territory military chief aide)<br />{{flagicon\|DR Congo}} Francois-Xavier Aba van Ang<ref name="HRW" /><br />(North Kivu deputy police commander)<br />{{flagicon\|EAC}}{{flagicon\|Kenya}} Jeff Mungai Nyagah<ref name="Nyagah">{{cite news \|last1=Lumu \|first1=David \|title=Kenyan Maj. Gen. Nyagah appointed as DRC joint force commander \|url=https://www.newvision.co.ug/category/news/kenyan-maj-gen-nyagah-appointed-as-drc-joint-143015 \|access-date=31 December 2022 \|publisher=New Vision \|date=14 September 2022 \|archive-date=31 December 2022 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221231001110/https://www.newvision.co.ug/category/news/kenyan-maj-gen-nyagah-appointed-as-drc-joint-143015 \|url-status=live }}</ref><br>(EAC-RF commander until April 2023)<br>{{flagicon\|EAC}}{{flagicon\|Kenya}} Alphaxard Kiugu<ref name="Alphaxard Kiugu App">{{cite news \|title=Kenyan commander's exit exposes tussle over regional force mandate \|url=https://www.theeastafrican.co.ke/tea/news/east-africa/why-kdf-man-is-unwanted-in-congo-mission-4217032 \|access-date=3 May 2023 \|work=The East African \|publisher=Nation Media \|date=1 May 2023 \|language=en \|archive-date=3 May 2023 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230503061921/https://www.theeastafrican.co.ke/tea/news/east-africa/why-kdf-man-is-unwanted-in-congo-mission-4217032 \|url-status=live }}</ref><br>(EAC-RF commander from April 2023) Line 49 ⟶ 57: 25th Battalion<ref name="monitor3" /> 35th Battalion<ref name="monitor3" /> \| strength1 = Rebels:<br>100–200+ (March 2022)<ref name="politico" /><br>400+ (May 2022)<ref name="politico" /><br> 3,000+ (June 2024)<ref>{{cite web \|title=S/2024/432 \|url=https://documents.un.org/doc/undoc/gen/n24/118/80/pdf/n2411880.pdf?token=cxiLV48yAnu1NioZpH&fe=true \|website=United Nations \|access-date=9 July 2024}}</ref><br />Rwanda:<br> {{circa}} ~~500–1~~3,000-4,000+<ref name="VOA aiding" /><ref>{{cite news \|title=DR Congo Says Rwanda Operating 500 Troops Over Border \|url=https://www.thedefensepost.com/2022/06/09/dr-congo-rwanda-troops/ \|work=Defense Post \|date=9 June 2022 \|access-date=13 June 2022 \|archive-date=13 June 2022 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220613123401/https://www.thedefensepost.com/2022/06/09/dr-congo-rwanda-troops/ \|url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news \|title=Uganda provided support to M23 rebels in Congo, UN report says \|url=https://www.reuters.com/world/africa/uganda-provided-support-m23-rebels-congo-un-report-says-2024-07-08/ \|access-date=9 July 2024 \|agency=Reuter \|date=8 July 2024}}</ref> \| strength2 = {{flagicon\|DRC}} Unknown<br>{{flagicon\|Kenya}} 900+<ref name="news24" /> <br> {{flagicon\|South Sudan}} 750 <ref name="VoA South Sudan" /> \| casualties1 = Unknown \| casualties2 = {{flagicon\|DRC}} 1 helicopter shot down<br />{{flagicon\|United Nations}} [[2022 MONUSCO helicopter crash\|1 helicopter shot down]],<ref name="BBC 30 March" /> 9 killed{{efn\|8 killed (6 Pakistanis, 1 Russian, 1 Serbian) during helicopter crash,<ref name="BBC 30 March" /> 1 Moroccan killed in ground combat with M23.<ref name="RadioOkapi 1 August" /> }} \| casualties3 = {{ubl\| 30,000 civilians displaced to Uganda<ref>{{Cite web \|last=Welle (www.dw.com) \|first=Deutsche \|title=DR Congo accuses Rwanda of 'invasion' as rebels attack town {{!}} DW {{!}} 14.06.2022 \|url=https://www.dw.com/en/dr-congo-accuses-rwanda-of-invasion-as-rebels-attack-town/a-62120212 \|access-date=2022-06-16 \|website=DW.COM \|language=en-GB \|archive-date=2022-06-15 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220615140548/https://www.dw.com/en/dr-congo-accuses-rwanda-of-invasion-as-rebels-attack-town/a-62120212 \|url-status=live }}</ref> ~~72,000~~2.5 million displaced in total (as of ~~May~~July 278, ~~2022~~2024)<ref>{{cite web \|title=Resurgent East Congo Violence Displaces 72,000 in One Week \|url=https://www.usnews.com/news/world/articles/2022-05-27/resurgent-east-congo-violence-displaces-72-000-in-one-week \|website=[[U.S. News & World Report]] \|date=2022-05-27 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220728214608/https://www.usnews.com/news/world/articles/2022-05-27/resurgent-east-congo-violence-displaces-72-000-in-one-week \|archive-date=2022-07-28 \|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web \|title=Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Situation Concerning the Democratic Republic of the Congo \|url=https://usun.usmission.gov/remarks-at-a-un-security-council-briefing-on-the-situation-concerning-the-democratic-republic-of-the-congo-4/ \|website=United States mission to the United Nations \|access-date=11 July 2024}}</ref>▼ 36,000 [[Internally displaced person\|internally displaced]]<ref>{{Cite web \|last=AfricaNews \|title=Refugees fleeing DRC fighting arrive in Uganda {{!}} Africanews \|url=https://www.euronews.com/2022/04/01/refugees-fleeing-drc-fighting-arrive-in-uganda \|access-date=2022-06-16 \|website=www.euronews.com \|language=en }}{{Dead link\|date=February 2023 \|bot=InternetArchiveBot \|fix-attempted=yes }}</ref> ▲72,000 displaced in total (as of May 27, 2022)<ref>{{cite web \|title=Resurgent East Congo Violence Displaces 72,000 in One Week \|url=https://www.usnews.com/news/world/articles/2022-05-27/resurgent-east-congo-violence-displaces-72-000-in-one-week \|website=[[U.S. News & World Report]] \|date=2022-05-27 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220728214608/https://www.usnews.com/news/world/articles/2022-05-27/resurgent-east-congo-violence-displaces-72-000-in-one-week \|archive-date=2022-07-28 \|url-status=live}}</ref> }} \| notes = \| campaignbox = {{Campaignbox Conflict in Congo}} \| image_size = 300px }} In late March 2022, the [[March 23 Movement]] (M23), supported by [[Rwanda]], launched an offensive in [[North Kivu]]~~, clashing~~ ~~with~~against the [[Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo]] (FARDC) and [[MONUSCO]]. The fighting displaced hundreds of thousands of civilians and caused renewed tensions between the [[Democratic Republic of the Congo]] and [[Rwanda]]~~, as the latter was proved of supporting the rebel offensive~~. == Background == Line 107 ⟶ 115: From 19 to 22 June, clashes continued as M23 attempted to break through FARDC defense positions. At first, the rebels assaulted villages along the southern axis, but were repelled at Karambi, Kitagoma and Kitovu, Bweza, and Busanza. They subsequently focused on Bikenge, Ruvumu, Shangi, and Bukima, overrunning the villages before the FARDC organized a counter-attack. The military was able to retake most of these settlements, though Ruvumu, Buharo, and Rutokara reportedly remained rebel-held. Overall, the pro-government forces generally held their positions, but the rebel assaults increasingly threatened the Matebe-Rwanguba axis.<ref>{{cite web \|url=https://www.radiookapi.net/2022/06/21/actualite/securite/nord-kivu-les-combats-sintensifient-entre-les-fardc-et-m23-rutshuru \|title=Nord-Kivu : les combats s'intensifient entre les FARDC et M23 à Rutshuru \|work=RadioOkapi \|date=21 June 2022 \|access-date=22 June 2022 \|archive-date=22 June 2022 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220622094946/https://www.radiookapi.net/2022/06/21/actualite/securite/nord-kivu-les-combats-sintensifient-entre-les-fardc-et-m23-rutshuru \|url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web \|url=https://www.radiookapi.net/2022/06/22/actualite/securite/nord-kivu-13-civils-tues-par-les-bombes-lancees-par-le-m23-kisigari \|title=Nord-Kivu : 13 civils tués par les bombes lancées par le M23 à Kisigari \|work=RadioOkapi \|date=22 June 2022 \|access-date=23 June 2022 \|archive-date=23 June 2022 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220623065500/https://www.radiookapi.net/2022/06/22/actualite/securite/nord-kivu-13-civils-tues-par-les-bombes-lancees-par-le-m23-kisigari \|url-status=live }}</ref> [[Human Rights Watch]] reported that 17 civilians, including two children, had been [[summarily executed]] on 21 June by the M23 for suspected collaboration with the FARDC.<ref>{{Cite web \|date=2022-07-25 \|title=DR Congo: Resurgent M23 Rebels Target Civilians \|url=https://www.hrw.org/news/2022/07/25/dr-congo-resurgent-m23-rebels-target-civilians \|access-date=2022-07-25 \|website=Human Rights Watch \|language=en \|archive-date=2022-07-25 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220725040402/https://www.hrw.org/news/2022/07/25/dr-congo-resurgent-m23-rebels-target-civilians \|url-status=live }}</ref> According to the newspaper ''Eco News'', the FARDC reportedly inflicted a defeat on M23 at the Runyoni frontline around this time, wounding Sultani Makenga and killing another rebel commander, Colonel [[Yusuf Mboneza]].<ref name="RadioOkapi2" /> Mboneza's death was later disputed by pro-M23 sources.<ref name="umuseke" /> There was a lull in fighting from 24 to 27 June.<ref>{{cite web \|url=https://www.radiookapi.net/2022/06/27/actualite/securite/nord-kivu-trois-jours-daccalmie-sur-les-lignes-de-front-rutshuru \|title=Nord-Kivu : trois jours d'accalmie sur les lignes de front à Rutshuru \|work=RadioOkapi \|date=27 June 2022 \|access-date=30 June 2022 \|archive-date=30 June 2022 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220630185638/https://www.radiookapi.net/2022/06/27/actualite/securite/nord-kivu-trois-jours-daccalmie-sur-les-lignes-de-front-rutshuru \|url-status=live }}</ref> Combat resumed on 28 June, as rebels attacked FARDC positions at Bushandaba, Ruseke and the strategic hill of Bikona.<ref>{{cite web \|url=https://www.radiookapi.net/2022/06/28/actualite/securite/rdc-nouveaux-affrontements-entre-larmee-et-le-m23-rutshuru \|title=RDC : nouveaux affrontements entre l'armée et le M23 à Rutshuru \|work=RadioOkapi \|date=28 June 2022 \|access-date=30 June 2022 \|archive-date=29 June 2022 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220629162210/https://www.radiookapi.net/2022/06/28/actualite/securite/rdc-nouveaux-affrontements-entre-larmee-et-le-m23-rutshuru \|url-status=live }}</ref> Pro-government forces, consisting of the military and police, counter-attacked, and retook the villages of Nkokwe, Ruvumu, Rugarama, Rutakara, Ntamugenga and Rutsiro.<ref>{{cite web \|url=https://www.radiookapi.net/2022/06/29/actualite/securite/rutshuru-les-fardc-reprennent-le-controle-de-4-villages-jadis-occupes \|title=Rutshuru : les FARDC reprennent le contrôle de 4 villages jadis occupés par le M23 \|work=RadioOkapi \|date=29 June 2022 \|access-date=30 June 2022 \|archive-date=29 June 2022 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220629171652/https://www.radiookapi.net/2022/06/29/actualite/securite/rutshuru-les-fardc-reprennent-le-controle-de-4-villages-jadis-occupes \|url-status=live }}</ref> On 29 June, the FARDC continued its advance, capturing Kabindi and Chengerero, though M23 militants countered by attacking Rutsiro.<ref>{{cite web \|url=https://www.radiookapi.net/2022/06/30/actualite/securite/nord-kivu-deux-villages-de-jomba-sous-controle-des-fardc \|title=Nord-Kivu : deux villages de Jomba sous contrôle des FARDC \|work=RadioOkapi \|date=30 June 2022 \|access-date=30 June 2022 \|archive-date=30 June 2022 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220630123409/https://www.radiookapi.net/2022/06/30/actualite/securite/nord-kivu-deux-villages-de-jomba-sous-controle-des-fardc \|url-status=live }}</ref> On 1 July, the FARDC claimed to had won a major victory over M23 and allied Rwandan troops after heavy fighting at Rutsiro, Ntamugenga and Nyabikona,<ref>{{cite web \|url=https://www.radiookapi.net/2022/07/01/actualite/securite/nord-kivu-les-fardc-affirment-avoir-neutralise-27-rebelles-m23 \|title=Nord-Kivu : les FARDC affirment avoir " neutralisé 27 rebelles M23 " à Rutshuru \|work=RadioOkapi \|date=1 July 2022 \|access-date=7 July 2022 \|archive-date=7 July 2022 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220707133908/https://www.radiookapi.net/2022/07/01/actualite/securite/nord-kivu-les-fardc-affirment-avoir-neutralise-27-rebelles-m23 \|url-status=live }}</ref> completely evicting the insurgents from the Bweza [[~~Subdivisions~~Groupings of the Democratic Republic of the Congo\|grouping (''groupement'')]] in Rutshuru.<ref>{{cite web \|url=https://www.radiookapi.net/2022/07/04/actualite/securite/rdc-reprise-des-combats-entre-les-fardc-et-le-m23-kisigari \|title=RDC : reprise des combats entre les FARDC et le M23 à Kisigari \|work=RadioOkapi \|date=4 July 2022 \|access-date=7 July 2022 \|archive-date=6 July 2022 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220706112029/https://www.radiookapi.net/2022/07/04/actualite/securite/rdc-reprise-des-combats-entre-les-fardc-et-le-m23-kisigari \|url-status=live }}</ref> Clashes continued at Bikenge and Ruseke on 4 July, as the FARDC repelled M23 assaults.<ref>{{cite web \|url=https://www.radiookapi.net/2022/07/04/actualite/securite/nord-kivu-calme-precaire-dans-les-zones-de-bikenke-et-ruseke \|title=Nord-Kivu : calme précaire dans les zones de Bikenke et Ruseke \|work=RadioOkapi \|date=4 July 2022 \|access-date=7 July 2022 \|archive-date=6 July 2022 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220706161228/https://www.radiookapi.net/2022/07/04/actualite/securite/nord-kivu-calme-precaire-dans-les-zones-de-bikenke-et-ruseke \|url-status=live }}</ref> On 6 July, the FARDC reorganized the leadership of the forces opposing M23 to improve their efficiency;<ref name="RadioOkapi3" /> in addition, Rwandan President [[Paul Kagame]] and the Congolese President Félix Tshisekedi held a meeting on the same day. According to the Congolese side, a ceasefire and the withdrawal of M23 from Congoloese soil was agreed upon. Instead of adhering to this agreement, the rebels attacked Kanyabusoro and Rwanguba on the following day.<ref>{{cite web \|url=https://www.radiookapi.net/2022/07/07/actualite/securite/rdc-reprise-des-combats-entre-les-fardc-et-le-m23 \|title=RDC : reprise des combats entre les FARDC et le M23 \|work=RadioOkapi \|date=7 July 2022 \|access-date=7 July 2022 \|archive-date=7 July 2022 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220707133918/https://www.radiookapi.net/2022/07/07/actualite/securite/rdc-reprise-des-combats-entre-les-fardc-et-le-m23 \|url-status=live }}</ref> Over the next days, clashes continued at various villages in the Bweza and Jomba ''groupements'', as M23 attempted to retake territory.<ref>{{cite web \|url=https://www.radiookapi.net/2022/07/08/actualite/securite/nord-kivu-poursuite-des-combats-entre-fardc-et-m23-ntamugenga \|title=Nord-Kivu : poursuite des combats entre FARDC et M23 à Ntamugenga \|work=RadioOkapi \|date=8 July 2022 \|access-date=7 July 2022 \|archive-date=8 July 2022 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220708225512/https://www.radiookapi.net/2022/07/08/actualite/securite/nord-kivu-poursuite-des-combats-entre-fardc-et-m23-ntamugenga \|url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web \|url=https://www.radiookapi.net/2022/07/09/actualite/securite/combats-fardc-m23-environ-2-600-menages-des-deplaces-recenses-au \|title=Combats FARDC-M23 : environ 2 600 ménages des déplacés recensés au village Buhiri \|work=RadioOkapi \|date=9 July 2022 \|access-date=7 July 2022 \|archive-date=9 July 2022 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220709140139/https://www.radiookapi.net/2022/07/09/actualite/securite/combats-fardc-m23-environ-2-600-menages-des-deplaces-recenses-au \|url-status=live }}</ref> At the same time, however, combat died down along other parts of the frontline.<ref>{{cite web \|url=https://www.radiookapi.net/2022/07/10/actualite/securite/nord-kivu-afflux-de-deplaces-nyirangongo-la-suite-des-combats-entre \|title=Nord-Kivu : afflux de déplacés à Nyirangongo à la suite des combats entre FARDC et M23 \|work=RadioOkapi \|date=10 July 2022 \|access-date=7 July 2022 \|archive-date=10 July 2022 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220710114324/https://www.radiookapi.net/2022/07/10/actualite/securite/nord-kivu-afflux-de-deplaces-nyirangongo-la-suite-des-combats-entre \|url-status=live }}</ref> In the following days, combat largely ceased in the Bweza and Jomba ''groupements'', but fighting erupted in the Kisigari ''groupement'' and at two important hills near Rumangabo.<ref>{{cite web \|url=https://www.radiookapi.net/2022/07/15/actualite/securite/nord-kivu-5eme-jour-daccalmie-sur-les-lignes-de-fronts-rutshuru \|title=Nord-Kivu : 5ème jour d'accalmie sur les lignes de fronts à Rutshuru \|work=RadioOkapi \|date=15 July 2022 \|access-date=20 July 2022 \|archive-date=20 July 2022 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220720130728/https://www.radiookapi.net/2022/07/15/actualite/securite/nord-kivu-5eme-jour-daccalmie-sur-les-lignes-de-fronts-rutshuru \|url-status=live }}</ref> Heavy fighting also took place in the Bashali -Mukoto ''groupement,'' of [[~~Masisi~~Bashali ~~Territory~~Chiefdom]], as two "[[Nyatura]]" factions clashed. One of them was a "dissident" group led by [[Jean-Marie Nyatura]] who was considered close to M23; Jean-Marie Nyatura's force attempted to capture several villages before being evicted from most of them by its local rivals.<ref name="Nyatura" /> After this point, there was again a lull in fighting.<ref>{{cite web \|url=https://www.radiookapi.net/2022/07/21/actualite/societe/nord-kivu-des-dizaine-de-familles-continuent-daffluer-vers-nyirangongo \|title=Nord-Kivu : des dizaine de familles continuent d'affluer vers Nyirangongo \|work=RadioOkapi \|date=21 July 2022 \|access-date=3 August 2022 \|archive-date=3 August 2022 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220803164042/https://www.radiookapi.net/2022/07/21/actualite/societe/nord-kivu-des-dizaine-de-familles-continuent-daffluer-vers-nyirangongo \|url-status=live }}</ref> Negotiations continued between Rwanda and the DR Congo under international mediation, though little progress was made.<ref>{{cite web \|url=https://www.radiookapi.net/2022/07/13/actualite/revue-de-presse/la-republique-guerre-rwanda-rdc-luanda-echec \|title=La République : " Guerre Rwanda – RDC. Luanda, échec ! " \|work=RadioOkapi \|date=13 July 2022 \|access-date=20 July 2022 \|archive-date=15 July 2022 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220715191840/https://www.radiookapi.net/2022/07/13/actualite/revue-de-presse/la-republique-guerre-rwanda-rdc-luanda-echec \|url-status=live }}</ref> On 14 July, Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni made another attempt at convincing M23 and the Congolese government to organize a ceasefire.<ref>{{cite web \|url=https://www.radiookapi.net/2022/07/16/actualite/societe/combats-fardc-m23-yoweri-museveri-preconise-un-cessez-le-feu-sur-la \|title=Combats FARDC-M23 : Yoweri Museveri préconise un cessez-le-feu sur la ligne de front \|work=RadioOkapi \|date=16 July 2022 \|access-date=20 July 2022 \|archive-date=19 July 2022 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220719231216/https://www.radiookapi.net/2022/07/16/actualite/societe/combats-fardc-m23-yoweri-museveri-preconise-un-cessez-le-feu-sur-la \|url-status=live }}</ref> Meanwhile, MONUSCO and the FARDC announced that they were shifting forces from other areas to prepare for an operation to fully push M23 back.<ref>{{cite web \|url=https://www.radiookapi.net/2022/07/15/actualite/securite/rdc-la-monusco-dement-avoir-fait-un-aveu-dimpuissance-face-aux \|title=RDC : la MONUSCO dément avoir fait un aveu d'impuissance face aux rebelles \|work=RadioOkapi \|date=15 July 2022 \|access-date=20 July 2022 \|archive-date=20 July 2022 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220720130731/https://www.radiookapi.net/2022/07/15/actualite/securite/rdc-la-monusco-dement-avoir-fait-un-aveu-dimpuissance-face-aux \|url-status=live }}</ref> On 18 July, Congolese government spokesman [[Patrick Muyaya Katembwe]] reaffirmed that any negotiations with the rebels depended on M23 retreating from its occupied territory beforehand.<ref>{{cite web \|url=https://www.radiookapi.net/2022/07/19/actualite/securite/patrick-muyaya-il-faut-que-le-m23-retourne-ses-positions-initiales \|title=Patrick Muyaya : " Il faut que le M23 retourne à ses positions initiales " \|work=RadioOkapi \|date=19 July 2022 \|access-date=20 July 2022 \|archive-date=20 July 2022 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220720130734/https://www.radiookapi.net/2022/07/19/actualite/securite/patrick-muyaya-il-faut-que-le-m23-retourne-ses-positions-initiales \|url-status=live }}</ref> [[File:Anti-MONUSCO protests in Goma in July 2022.png\|thumb\|left\|[[Anti-MONUSCO protests]] in [[Goma]], July 2022. ]] Line 118 ⟶ 126: === Renewed offensive === Fighting renewed on 20 October after according to the FARDC, M23 attacked a military post. on 23 October M23 group captured the town of [[Ntamugenga]] killing five soldiers, fighting soon spread to the strategic RN2, four civilians were killed and 40 were injured in the fighting. By 24 October fighting caused more than 23,000 people to flee their homes.<ref>{{cite news \|title=Congo fighting flares as hundreds shelter in convent - army, MSF \|url=https://www.reuters.com/world/africa/m23-rebels-clash-with-army-renewed-east-congo-fighting-2022-10-24/ \|access-date=30 October 2022 \|work=Reuters \|date=24 October 2022 \|archive-date=29 October 2022 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221029110230/https://www.reuters.com/world/africa/m23-rebels-clash-with-army-renewed-east-congo-fighting-2022-10-24/ \|url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news \|title=DR Congo troops clash with M23 rebels \|url=https://www.france24.com/en/live-news/20221023-dr-congo-troops-clash-with-m23-rebels \|access-date=30 October 2022 \|agency=France24 \|date=23 October 2022 \|archive-date=30 October 2022 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221030173143/https://www.france24.com/en/live-news/20221023-dr-congo-troops-clash-with-m23-rebels \|url-status=live }}</ref> the offensive continued along the RN2 highway leading to M23 capturing the towns of Rubare, Kalengera, and Kako.<ref>{{cite web \|title=DR Congo Army Clashes With M23 Rebels Around Strategic Eastern Highway \|url=https://www.thedefensepost.com/2022/10/27/dr-congo-clash-m23-rebels/ \|website=The Defense Post \|date=27 October 2022 \|access-date=30 October 2022 \|archive-date=30 October 2022 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221030173146/https://www.thedefensepost.com/2022/10/27/dr-congo-clash-m23-rebels/ \|url-status=live }}</ref> On 29 October M23 rebels took control of [[Rutshuru]] and [[Kiwanja]].<ref>[https://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory/official-m23-rebels-capture-towns-eastern-congo-92341297 Rebels makes new advance, and Congo expels Rwandan envoy] {{Webarchive\|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221030103948/https://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory/official-m23-rebels-capture-towns-eastern-congo-92341297 \|date=2022-10-30 }}, 30 October 2022</ref> Around this time, allegedly Rwandan-equipped Nyatura rebels clashed with FDLR militants at in Rugari.<ref name="Etahoben1" /> In response to the offensive, the government of the DRC ordered the Rwandan Ambassador to the country, Vincent Karega, to leave within the next 48 hours.<ref>{{cite news \|title=DR Congo expels Rwandan ambassador as M23 rebels seize towns \|url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2022/10/30/dr-congo-expels-rwandan-ambassador-as-m23-rebels-gain-ground \|access-date=30 October 2022 \|agency=aljazeera \|date=30 October 2022 \|archive-date=30 October 2022 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221030085840/https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2022/10/30/dr-congo-expels-rwandan-ambassador-as-m23-rebels-gain-ground \|url-status=live }}</ref> Anti-Rwandan protests broke out on 31 October in Goma, demanding that the DRC leave the East African Community and that Russia intervene in the conflict. Government spokesman [[Patrick Muyaya Katembwe\|Patrick Muyaya]] said that the DRC would not negotiate with M23.<ref>{{cite news \|title=drc rules out talks with terrorist-m23 as tensions worsen \|url=https://chimpreports.com/drc-rules-out-talks-with-terrorist-m23-as-tensions-worsen/ \|access-date=1 November 2022 \|agency=chimpreports \|date=1 November 2022 \|archive-date=1 November 2022 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221101061524/https://chimpreports.com/drc-rules-out-talks-with-terrorist-m23-as-tensions-worsen/ \|url-status=live }}</ref> On 2 November, Kenya announced that it would send 900 soldiers to fight against the M23.<ref name="news24" /> Riots broke out in Goma after rumors of the UN transporting M23, and several UN vehicles were burned by rioting civilians. The UN accounted a "strategic and tactical withdrawal" from the [[Rumangabo]] military base.<ref>{{cite news \|title=Protesters in DRC set fire to UN vehicles in Goma \|url=https://www.africanews.com/2022/11/02/protesters-set-fire-to-un-vehicles-in-goma-on-tuesday-night-protesting-against-the-presenc/ \|access-date=2 November 2022 \|agency=africanews \|date=2 November 2022 \|archive-date=2 November 2022 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221102084911/http://www.africanews.com/2022/11/02/protesters-set-fire-to-un-vehicles-in-goma-on-tuesday-night-protesting-against-the-presenc/ \|url-status=live }}</ref> On 7 November, the Congolese military stated they were training 3,000 new recruits to go and fight M23,<ref>{{cite news \|title=Congo trains 3,000 new army recruits amid Rwanda tensions \|url=https://www.greenwichtime.com/news/article/Congo-trains-3-000-new-army-recruits-amid-Rwanda-17564179.php \|access-date=7 November 2022 \|agency=greenwich time \|date=7 November 2022 \|archive-date=7 November 2022 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221107154607/https://www.greenwichtime.com/news/article/Congo-trains-3-000-new-army-recruits-amid-Rwanda-17564179.php \|url-status=live }}</ref> and soon after began to bomb the rebels with two fighter jets. Rwanda protested that a [[Air Force of the Democratic Republic of the Congo\|Congolese Air Force]] [[Sukhoi Su-25]] had violated its airspace.<ref name="DefensePost2" /> By 15 November 2022, M23 had pushed to the towns of Rugari and Tongo clashing with the FARDC. A M23 attack on Kibumba was initially repelled. As the insurgents advanced, hundreds of civilians fled.<ref>{{cite news \|title=Thousands displaced as M23 rebels near key DRC city of Goma \|url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2022/11/15/hundreds-flee-as-congos-m23-rebels-near-key-city-of-goma \|access-date=18 November 2022 \|agency=Al Jazeera \|date=15 November 2022 \|archive-date=18 November 2022 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221118141701/https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2022/11/15/hundreds-flee-as-congos-m23-rebels-near-key-city-of-goma \|url-status=live }}</ref> By 17 November, M23 claimed to have captured the towns of Kibumba, Ruhunda, Buhumba, Kabuhanga, Tongo, and Mulimbi from the FDLR who they accuse of working with the Congolese army.<ref>{{cite news \|title=M23 claims capture of FDLR strongholds \|url=https://www.newtimes.co.rw/article/2723/news/africa/m23-claims-capture-of-fdlr-strongholds \|access-date=18 November 2022 \|agency=The New Times \|date=17 November 2022 \|archive-date=18 November 2022 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221118081915/https://www.newtimes.co.rw/article/2723/news/africa/m23-claims-capture-of-fdlr-strongholds \|url-status=live }}</ref> The Ugandan military said that they would participate in the fight against the M23 joining Kenyan troops.<ref>{{cite news \|title=Uganda Readies Strike Force to Counter M23 Rebels \|url=https://chimpreports.com/uganda-readies-strike-force-to-counter-m23-rebels/ \|access-date=18 November 2022 \|agency=Chimp Reports \|date=17 November 2022 \|archive-date=17 November 2022 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221117204846/https://chimpreports.com/uganda-readies-strike-force-to-counter-m23-rebels/ \|url-status=live }}</ref> On 18 November, Rwanda declared a ceasefire on behalf of the rebels.<ref>{{cite web \|title=Rwanda agrees on 'immediate ceasefire' in eastern DR Congo \|url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2022/11/18/rwanda-agrees-on-immediate-ceasefire-in-eastern-dr-congo \|work=al-Jazeera \|date=18 November 2022 \|access-date=7 January 2023 \|archive-date=7 January 2023 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230107004812/https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2022/11/18/rwanda-agrees-on-immediate-ceasefire-in-eastern-dr-congo \|url-status=live }}</ref> By late November, the FARDC had reportedly formed a coalition with several local militias, including FLDR, [[Mai-Mai]] groups, and some Nyatura factions.<ref name="Bahati" /> A MONUSCO investigation reported in December that massacres by the M23 in November killed at least 131 civilians in the [[Rutshuru Territory]] villages of [[Kishishe massacre\|Bambo and Kishishe]].<ref name=":0">{{Cite news \|date=2022-12-08 \|title=DR Congo conflict: M23 rebels executed over 130 civilians - UN \|language=en-GB \|work=BBC News \|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-63899461 \|access-date=2022-12-08 \|archive-date=2022-12-08 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221208105038/https://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-63899461 \|url-status=live }}</ref> The victims included 102 men, 17 women and 12 children, each of whom were "arbitrarily executed... as part of reprisals against the civilian population" who were perceived to be aligned with the government.<ref name=":0" /> On 23 December, M23 was forced by heavy international pressure to officially hand over Kibumba to the EAC Regional Force. Despite this, their withdrawal was only partial; the insurgents maintained a presence in the town's outskirts. FARDC declared the alleged handover of Kibumba a "sham", intended to distract from M23's attempts to advance in other areas.<ref name="DefensePost" /> On 28 December 2022, [[South Sudan]] sent a contingency of 750 troops to join the East African Contingency to be stationed in [[Goma]].<ref>{{Cite web \|title=South Sudan Sends 750 Troops to DRC \|url=https://www.voanews.com/a/south-sudan-sends-750-troops-to-drc/6895421.html \|access-date=2022-12-30 \|website=VOA \|date=28 December 2022 \|language=en \|archive-date=2022-12-29 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221229140235/https://www.voanews.com/a/south-sudan-sends-750-troops-to-drc/6895421.html \|url-status=live }}</ref> Over the next weeks, heavy fighting took place between M23 and a number of rival militias allied to FARDC, including [[Alliance of Patriots for a Free and Sovereign Congo\|APCLS]] which declared its aim to capture Bwiza from the rebels. Meanwhile, M23 captured several villages and the town of Nyamilima near the Ugandan border.<ref name="DefensePost" /> In January, clashes continued even as M23 declared its intention to surrender the Rumangabo military base to the EAC Regional Force.<ref name="DefensePost" /> On 18 January Felix Tshisekedi accused the M23 of not withdrawing from the seized territory as agreed.<ref>{{cite news \|title=DRC president says M23 rebels yet to withdraw as agreed \|url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2023/1/18/update-1-congolese-president-says-m23-rebels-have-not-withdrawn-as-agreed \|access-date=24 January 2023 \|agency=Al Jazeera \|date=24 January 2022 \|archive-date=24 January 2023 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230124185530/https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2023/1/18/update-1-congolese-president-says-m23-rebels-have-not-withdrawn-as-agreed \|url-status=live }}</ref> On 24 January a Congolese Su-25 was damaged by ground fire from Rwanda after Rwanda said it violated its airspace.<ref>{{cite news \|title=Rwanda says Congo fighter jet violated its airspace \|url=https://www.reuters.com/world/africa/rwanda-says-congo-fighter-jet-violated-its-airspace-2023-01-24/ \|access-date=24 January 2023 \|work=Reuters \|date=24 January 2022 \|archive-date=24 January 2023 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230124185125/https://www.reuters.com/world/africa/rwanda-says-congo-fighter-jet-violated-its-airspace-2023-01-24/ \|url-status=live }}</ref> On 27 January M23 captured the city of Kitshanga causing people to flee and take refuge in the nearby UN base.<ref>{{cite news \|title=UN condemns M23 rebel offensive on DRC town as hundreds flee \|url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2023/1/27/u-n-condemns-m23-rebel-offensive-on-congo-town-hundreds-flee \|access-date=27 January 2023 \|agency=Al Jazeera \|date=27 January 2023 \|archive-date=26 February 2023 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230226042240/https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2023/1/27/u-n-condemns-m23-rebel-offensive-on-congo-town-hundreds-flee \|url-status=live }}</ref> Kitshanga's capture cut off the road linking [[Butembo]], North Kivu's second largest city, to Goma.<ref>{{Cite web\|date=2 February 2023\|title=Goma Suffocating After M23 Rebels Cut Off Road From Butembo\|url=https://taarifa.rw/goma-suffocating-after-m23-rebels-cut-off-road-from-butembo/\|access-date=2 February 2023\|website=Taarifa\|archive-date=2 February 2023\|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230202204517/https://taarifa.rw/goma-suffocating-after-m23-rebels-cut-off-road-from-butembo/\|url-status=live}}</ref> After two days of heavy fighting, M23 seized the village of Mushaki on February 24, forcing civilians to flee and threatening supply routes to Goma.<ref>{{Cite web\|last1=Malkia\|first1=Christina\|last2=Kabumba\|first2=Justin\|date=24 February 2023\|title=Rebels capture more ground in Congo as fighting intensifies\|url=https://www.newstimes.com/news/world/article/rebels-capture-more-ground-in-congo-as-fighting-17804118.php\|access-date=26 February 2023\|website=News Times\|archive-date=26 February 2023\|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230226042221/https://www.newstimes.com/news/world/article/rebels-capture-more-ground-in-congo-as-fighting-17804118.php\|url-status=live}}</ref> Three days later M23 took the town of Rubaya and its [[Rubaya mines\|coltan mines]].<ref>{{Cite web\|last=Mulegwa\|first=Pascal\|date=27 February 2023\|title=Congolese M23 rebels seize major mining town of Rubaya\|url=https://www.aa.com.tr/en/africa/congolese-m23-rebels-seize-major-mining-town-of-rubaya/2832658\|access-date=27 February 2023\|website=Anadolu Agency\|archive-date=27 February 2023\|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230227175337/https://www.aa.com.tr/en/africa/congolese-m23-rebels-seize-major-mining-town-of-rubaya/2832658\|url-status=live}}</ref> The next day, the town of Mweso also fell to the rebels.<ref>{{Cite web\|date=28 February 2023\|title=Rebel Clashes Flare in East DR Congo Despite Pullout Plan\|url=https://www.voanews.com/a/rebel-clashes-flare-in-east-dr-congo-despite-pullout-plan-/6983022.html\|access-date=1 March 2023\|website=Voice of America\|archive-date=28 February 2023\|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230228231907/https://www.voanews.com/a/rebel-clashes-flare-in-east-dr-congo-despite-pullout-plan-/6983022.html\|url-status=live}}</ref> In March, continued clashes caused 100,000 civilians to flee their homes.<ref>{{Cite web \|title=Western Donors Pressed to Sanction Rwanda as DRC Violence Escalates \|url=https://www.voanews.com/a/western-donors-pressed-to-sanction-rwanda-as-drc-violence-escalates-/7010244.html \|website=VOA \|date=17 March 2023 \|access-date=13 April 2023 \|archive-date=13 April 2023 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230413195040/https://www.voanews.com/a/western-donors-pressed-to-sanction-rwanda-as-drc-violence-escalates-/7010244.html \|url-status=live }}</ref> Further attempts to implement a ceasefire, including one organized by Angola, had failed. However, M23 did withdraw from a few villages to hand them over to the EAC Regional Force.<ref>{{Cite web \|title=Rebels Pull Back in Eastern DR Congo as Regional Force Deploys \|url=https://www.voanews.com/a/rebels-pull-back-in-eastern-dr-congo-as-regional-force-deploys-/7008905.html \|website=VOA \|date=17 March 2023 \|access-date=13 April 2023 \|archive-date=13 April 2023 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230413200543/https://www.voanews.com/a/rebels-pull-back-in-eastern-dr-congo-as-regional-force-deploys-/7008905.html \|url-status=live }}</ref> At this point, the insurgents controlled much of the land north of Goma, while still advancing westward.<ref>{{Cite web \|title=M23 Rebels Clash With Army in East DR Congo After Failed Ceasefire \|url=https://www.thedefensepost.com/2023/03/08/rebels-clash-congo-ceasefire/ \|website=Defense Post \|date=8 March 2023 \|access-date=13 April 2023 \|archive-date=13 April 2023 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230413195040/https://www.thedefensepost.com/2023/03/08/rebels-clash-congo-ceasefire/ \|url-status=live }}</ref> In late March and early April, M23 rebels vacated a number of villages, though also fought with a rival Nyatura faction during this withdrawal.<ref>{{cite web \|url=https://www.radiookapi.net/2023/04/03/actualite/securite/nord-kivu-les-m23-se-retirent-de-kishishe-et-bambu-mais-renforcent \|title=Nord-Kivu : les M23 se retirent de Kishishe et Bambu, mais renforcent leurs positions à Rugari et Kibumba \|work=RadioOkapi \|date=3 April 2023 \|access-date=13 April 2023 \|archive-date=13 April 2023 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230413195049/https://www.radiookapi.net/2023/04/03/actualite/securite/nord-kivu-les-m23-se-retirent-de-kishishe-et-bambu-mais-renforcent \|url-status=live }}</ref> M23 also kept attacking the FARDC in other areas.<ref>{{cite web \|url=https://www.radiookapi.net/2023/03/30/actualite/securite/nord-kivu-reprise-des-combats-entre-fardc-et-m23 \|title=Nord-Kivu : reprise des combats entre FARDC et M23 \|work=RadioOkapi \|date=30 March 2023 \|access-date=13 April 2023 \|archive-date=13 April 2023 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230413195050/https://www.radiookapi.net/2023/03/30/actualite/securite/nord-kivu-reprise-des-combats-entre-fardc-et-m23 \|url-status=live }}</ref> On 3 April, Ugandan EAC soldiers entered [[Bunagana, Democratic Republic of the Congo\|Bunagana]]. However, instead of replacing the M23 occupation (as previously agreed), the peacekeepers coexisted with the rebels.<ref name="RadioOkapi0423">{{cite web \|url=https://www.radiookapi.net/2023/04/04/actualite/securite/nord-kivu-le-contingent-ougandais-de-leac-cohabite-avec-les-rebelles \|title=Nord-Kivu : le contingent ougandais de l'EAC cohabite avec les rebelles du M23 à Bunagana(sources locales) \|work=RadioOkapi \|date=4 April 2023 \|access-date=13 April 2023 \|archive-date=13 April 2023 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230413200543/https://www.radiookapi.net/2023/04/04/actualite/securite/nord-kivu-le-contingent-ougandais-de-leac-cohabite-avec-les-rebelles \|url-status=live }}</ref> Such an arrangement was also observed at Rumangabo, where Kenyans and M23 inhabited the same base, and along the Sake-Kilolirwe-Kitshanga-Mwesso axis, where Burundian and rebel forces operated next to each other.<ref>{{cite web \|url=https://www.radiookapi.net/2023/04/03/actualite/securite/rdc-arrivee-des-detachements-precurseurs-des-militaires-sud-soudanais \|title=RDC : arrivée des détachements précurseurs des militaires sud-soudanais à Goma \|work=RadioOkapi \|date=3 April 2023 \|access-date=13 April 2023 \|archive-date=13 April 2023 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230413195123/https://www.radiookapi.net/2023/04/03/actualite/securite/rdc-arrivee-des-detachements-precurseurs-des-militaires-sud-soudanais \|url-status=live }}</ref> In addition, local sources suggested that M23 had begun to arm and train other militias.<ref name="RadioOkapi0423" /> On 10 April, M23 rebels completely retreated from the Bwito chiefdom in Rutshuru, allowing EAC peacekeepers to move in.<ref>{{cite web \|url=https://www.radiookapi.net/2023/04/11/actualite/securite/nord-kivu-le-m23-poursuit-son-retrait-de-certaines-positions \|title=Nord-Kivu : le M23 poursuit son retrait de certaines positions \|work=RadioOkapi \|date=11 April 2023 \|access-date=13 April 2023 \|archive-date=12 April 2023 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230412174143/https://www.radiookapi.net/2023/04/11/actualite/securite/nord-kivu-le-m23-poursuit-son-retrait-de-certaines-positions \|url-status=live }}</ref> On the other side, the insurgents fortified and reinforced their positions in Kibumba, in one case in the direct vicinity to Kenyan EAC troops.<ref>{{cite web \|url=https://www.radiookapi.net/2023/04/05/actualite/securite/nord-kivu-les-rebelles-du-m23-renforcent-leur-position-kibumba \|title=Nord-Kivu : les rebelles du M23 renforcent leur position à Kibumba \|work=RadioOkapi \|date=5 April 2023 \|access-date=13 April 2023 \|archive-date=13 April 2023 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230413195048/https://www.radiookapi.net/2023/04/05/actualite/securite/nord-kivu-les-rebelles-du-m23-renforcent-leur-position-kibumba \|url-status=live }}</ref> In October of 2023, the DRC ordered the EAC force in the country to leave by 8 December, due to a "lack of satisfactory results on the ground".<ref>{{Cite web \|date=2023-10-10 \|title=Congo orders regional peacekeepers to leave by December \|url=https://apnews.com/article/congo-m23-rebels-east-african-peacekeeping-mission-65e3d72e57be636f1436a11ac29ac578 \|access-date=2023-10-29 \|website=AP News \|language=en \|archive-date=2023-10-29 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029184110/https://apnews.com/article/congo-m23-rebels-east-african-peacekeeping-mission-65e3d72e57be636f1436a11ac29ac578 \|url-status=live }}</ref> On 26 October, the M23 rebels launched an offensive on Bambo, seizing the town.<ref>{{Cite web \|date=2023-10-26 \|title=Democratic Republic of Congo rocked by new M23 rebel offensive \|url=https://www.lemonde.fr/en/international/article/2023/10/26/democratic-republic-of-congo-rocked-by-new-m23-rebel-offensive_6206156_4.html \|access-date=2023-10-29 \|website=Le Monde.fr \|language=en \|archive-date=2023-10-28 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231028232619/https://www.lemonde.fr/en/international/article/2023/10/26/democratic-republic-of-congo-rocked-by-new-m23-rebel-offensive_6206156_4.html \|url-status=live }}</ref> Meanwhile, fighting continued to close in on the city of Goma, with clashes taking place 20 kilometers from the city.<ref>{{Cite web \|last=Presse \|first=AFP-Agence France \|title=DR Congo Fighting Moves Close To Goma City \|url=https://www.barrons.com/news/dr-congo-fighting-moves-close-to-goma-city-ea599a8f \|access-date=2023-10-29 \|website=www.barrons.com \|language=en-US \|archive-date=2023-10-29 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029183859/https://www.barrons.com/news/dr-congo-fighting-moves-close-to-goma-city-ea599a8f \|url-status=live }}</ref> On 4 February 2024, M23 seized the town of Shasha, severing a road linking Goma to outside areas- M23 subsequently seized the towns of Kihindo, Kituva, Bukobati, and Nyamubingwa, and was in control of the Goma-[[Minova]] road by 5 February. The fighting caused many civilians and the Congolese military to flee to the town of Minova, and M23 ended up in control of all routes leading out of Goma.<ref>{{Cite web \|last=Ndushabandi \|first=Claver \|date=2024-02-05 \|title=M23 Rebels Seize Strategic Town in Rapid Advance to Goma \|url=https://chimpreports.com/m23-rebels-seize-strategic-town-in-rapid-advance-to-goma/ \|access-date=2024-02-27 \|archive-date=2024-02-07 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240207124930/https://chimpreports.com/m23-rebels-seize-strategic-town-in-rapid-advance-to-goma/ \|url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite news \|last=Powell \|first=Jim \|date=2024-03-15 \|title=The week around the world in 20 pictures \|url=https://www.theguardian.com/artanddesign/gallery/2024/mar/15/the-week-around-the-world-in-20-pictures \|access-date=2024-03-16 \|work=the Guardian \|language=en-GB \|issn=0261-3077 \|archive-date=2024-03-16 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240316000349/https://www.theguardian.com/artanddesign/gallery/2024/mar/15/the-week-around-the-world-in-20-pictures \|url-status=live }}</ref> The M23 rebels were advancing on the town of [[Sake, Democratic Republic of the Congo\|Sake]] by 7 February, causing many in the town to flee to Goma.<ref>{{Cite web \|date=2024-02-07 \|title=Residents scatter as they fear Congo rebel group will again seize key eastern city of Goma \|website=[[Associated Press News]] \|url=https://apnews.com/article/congo-north-kivu-ituri-goma-violence-conflict-tshisekedi-0c1990292498e65875cd7f989b65f641 \|access-date=2024-02-27 \|archive-date=2024-02-26 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240226143822/https://apnews.com/article/congo-north-kivu-ituri-goma-violence-conflict-tshisekedi-0c1990292498e65875cd7f989b65f641 \|url-status=live }}</ref> The town of Sake had been heavily defended by the Congolese government and the forces of MONUSCO over the course of a year.<ref>{{Cite web \|last=Ndushabandi \|first=Claver \|date=2024-02-07 \|title=M23 Rebels Advance Toward Sake as Thousands Flee to Goma \|url=https://chimpreports.com/m23-rebels-advance-toward-sake-as-thousands-flee-to-goma/ \|access-date=2024-02-27 \|website=ChimpReports \|archive-date=2024-02-08 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240208163512/https://chimpreports.com/m23-rebels-advance-toward-sake-as-thousands-flee-to-goma/ \|url-status=live }}</ref> On 20 June, Rwandan president [[Paul Kagame]] declared to [[France 24]], "we are ready to fight" against the DRC if necessary, while evading questions about Rwanda's military presence in the region.<ref>{{Cite web \|last=Perelman \|first=Marc \|date=20 June 2024 \|title=Tête à tête - Rwanda 'ready to fight' with DR Congo if necessary, President Paul Kagame says \|trans-title=Rwanda 'ready to fight' with DR Congo if necessary, President Paul Kagame says \|url=https://www.france24.com/en/tv-shows/t%C3%AAte-%C3%A0-t%C3%AAte/20240620-rwanda-s-president-paul-kagame-says-ready-to-fight-with-dr-congo-if-necessary \|access-date=10 July 2024 \|website=France 24 \|language=en \|publication-place=Paris, France \|archive-date=10 July 2024 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240710062221/https://www.france24.com/en/tv-shows/t%C3%AAte-%C3%A0-t%C3%AAte/20240620-rwanda-s-president-paul-kagame-says-ready-to-fight-with-dr-congo-if-necessary \|url-status=live }}</ref> In July 2024, a report commissioned by the [[United Nations Security Council\|UN Security Council]] disclosed that between 3,000 to 4,000 Rwandan military interventions and operations had been conducted in the [[Nyiragongo Territory\|Nyiragongo]], [[Rutshuru Territory\|Rutshuru]], and [[Masisi Territory\|Masisi]] territories, collaborating with M23 rebels, with "Kigali exercising significant control over the rebel group's operations."<ref name=":1">{{Cite web \|date=8 July 2024 \|title=Rwandan soldiers fighting with M23 rebels in DR Congo, says UN report \|url=https://www.france24.com/en/africa/20240708-rwandan-soldiers-fighting-with-m23-rebels-in-dr-congo-says-un-report \|access-date=10 July 2024 \|website=France 24 \|language=en \|publication-place=Paris, France \|archive-date=9 July 2024 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240709220618/https://www.france24.com/en/africa/20240708-rwandan-soldiers-fighting-with-m23-rebels-in-dr-congo-says-un-report \|url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web \|date=9 July 2024 \|title=Uganda backed M23 in DRC, Rwanda's 'de facto control’ on group: UN experts \|url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2024/7/9/uganda-backed-m23-in-drc-rwandas-de-facto-control-on-group-un-experts \|access-date=10 July 2024 \|website=Al Jazeera \|language=en \|publication-place=Doha, Qatar}}</ref> The report estimated that by April, the number of Rwandan troops was "matching if not surpassing" the estimated 3,000 M23 soldiers. It includes authenticated photographs, drone footage, video recordings, testimonies, and intelligence substantiating the RDF's systematic border incursions.<ref name=":1" /> The evidence depicts rows of armed personnel in uniform, operating equipment such as artillery, armored vehicles with radar and anti-aircraft missile systems, and troop transport trucks.<ref name=":1" /> It also reveals that children as young as 12 were recruited from "nearly all refugee camps in Rwanda" by intelligence officers through false promises of payment or employment, only to be sent to training camps in the rebel-controlled zone under the supervision of Rwandan soldiers and M23 combatants.<ref name=":1" /> On August 5, Nearly a hundred officers of the Congolese national police fled to Uganda as fighting between the M23 rebels and the Congolese army intensified.<ref>{{Cite web \|date=5 August 2024 \|title=Congolese police officers flee to Uganda as fighting intensifies \|url=https://www.reuters.com/world/africa/congolese-police-officers-flee-uganda-fighting-intensifies-2024-08-05/ \|access-date=5 August 2024 \|website=Reuters \|language=en \|publication-place=Kampala, Rwanda}}</ref> == Analysis == Line 160 ⟶ 170: *{{Cite news \|last1=Walsh \|first1=Declan \|last2=Bashizi \|first2=Arlette \|date=2023-12-17 \|title=The Overlooked Crisis in Congo: 'We Live in War' \|language=en-US \|work=The New York Times \|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2023/12/17/world/africa/democratic-republic-of-congo-elections.html \|access-date=2023-12-18 }} {{DR Congo conflicts footer}}{{Democratic Republic of the Congo–Rwanda relations}}{{2020s in political history}} {{DEFAULTSORT:M23 offensive (2022-2023)}} [[Category:North Kivu]] [[Category:M23 offensive (2022)\| ]]