Burundi Withdraws Troops from DR Congo Amidst M23 Rebel Advances and UN Human Rights Accusations

Burundian troops are withdrawing from the Democratic Republic of Congo, following accusations by the UN Human Rights Office against the M23 rebels for executing children in eastern Congo. The withdrawal follows the M23's capture of two major cities in the region. Burundian soldiers had been assisting Congolese forces in defending Kavumu, near Bukavu, which recently fell to the rebels. Burundi has maintained a military presence in eastern Congo for years, initially targeting Burundian rebels and later aiding in the fight against M23. While M23 claims not all Burundian troops have left, some residents report their continued presence. The M23, a Tutsi-led rebel group, has been gaining ground, with Rwanda denying accusations of providing support.