The M23 rebels have captured Walikale, eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, a day after the Congolese and Rwandan presidents called for a ceasefire following talks in Doha, Qatar. The town, rich in tin and gold deposits, links four eastern provinces—North Kivu, South Kivu, Tshopo, and Maniema. Beyond this, the Walikale area is home to the country’s largest tin deposits. Consequently, its seizure dealt a major blow to the Congolese army, which has reportedly stopped fighting. This escalation follows M23’s withdrawal from direct peace talks with the DRC, citing EU sanctions on its leaders. It also marks another flashpoint in Congo’s decades-long conflict.
Source: AP