Rwanda-Backed M23 Offensive in Congo’s South Kivu Kills Over 400 Civilians 

More than 400 civilians have been killed since the Rwanda-backed M23 armed group escalated its offensive in the South Kivu province in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, regional officials said, adding that Rwandan special forces were in the strategic city of Uvira. 
  
“More than 413 civilians (have been) killed by bullets, grenades, and bombs, including many women, children and young people” in localities between Uvira and Bukavu, the regional capital, the South Kivu government spokesperson said in a statement late Wednesday. 
  
M23’s latest offensive comes despite a U.S.-mediated peace agreement signed last week by the Congolese and Rwandan presidents in Washington. The accord didn’t include the rebel group, which is negotiating separately with Congo and agreed earlier this year to a ceasefire that both sides accuse the other of violating. However, it obliges Rwanda to halt support for armed groups and work to end hostilities. 
 
U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres called for the “immediate and unconditional cessation of hostilities.” 
  
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