The M23 rebel group has significantly expanded its control in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), capturing both the provincial capitals of Goma in North Kivu and Bukavu in South Kivu as of January 2025 [1][2].

This marks the rebel group's strongest position since its formation, surpassing even its 2012 territorial gains when it briefly held Goma before being pushed back [1].

The current situation differs markedly from 2013, when international pressure and UN peacekeeping forces successfully countered M23's advances. Expert Stephanie Wolters from the South African Institute for International Affairs notes that today's international response lacks the unified approach seen previously [2].

Several key factors contribute to the ongoing instability:

- The DRC government's limited control in the eastern regions, with security forces poorly equipped and often unpaid [1]

- Complex regional dynamics involving Rwanda, whose President Paul Kagame is accused of supporting M23 despite denials [2]

- Competition for valuable mineral resources, including gold and coltan, essential for smartphone production [1]

Richard Moncrieff of the International Crisis Group emphasizes that natural resources continue to fuel the conflict: "Unglievable amounts of minerals, including gold, coltan and others, have been extracted from the country and are financing the war" [2].

While Belgium and the United States have taken strong positions against the conflict, other international actors, including the European Union, have struggled to present a unified response. Notably, African members of the UN Security Council recently blocked attempts to condemn Rwanda's alleged role in the conflict [1][2].