Fierce fighting in DR Congo as M23 advances towards Uvira

The Tanzanian government has canceled Independence Day events scheduled for Tuesday amid calls for a day of action from protesters, reflecting rising tensions in the country following recent elections. This decision comes as authorities anticipate significant unrest and have deployed a heavy police presence in major cities to deter protests.

The US and European nations have called on Rwanda and the M23 rebel group to cease their offensive in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), following the recent signing of a peace agreement in Washington. This appeal comes as M23 fighters have taken control of the strategic city of Uvira, prompting a mass exodus of civilians into Burundi.

The United States has sanctioned several Colombian citizens accused of establishing a transnational network to recruit fighters for the ongoing conflict in Sudan. This action highlights the U.S. government's efforts to combat the involvement of foreign mercenaries in international conflicts, particularly in regions experiencing severe humanitarian crises.

About 200,000 people have fled their homes in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) as Rwanda-backed M23 rebels clash with the Congolese army and other groups while advancing towards a strategic eastern town, just days after a peace deal was brokered by U.S. President Donald Trump between Rwanda and the DRC. The UN reports at least 74 fatalities, primarily among civilians, due to the escalating violence in the region.

The International Criminal Court (ICC) has sentenced Ali Muhammad Ali Abd-Al-Rahman, a former leader of the Janjaweed militia, to 20 years in prison for war crimes and crimes against humanity committed during the Darfur conflict over two decades ago. This ruling marks a significant moment in the pursuit of justice for the atrocities that occurred in the region.

The United States has imposed sanctions on a network of Colombian nationals and companies accused of recruiting mercenaries to support the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in Sudan, a paramilitary group implicated in severe war crimes, including genocide. This action highlights the U.S. government's ongoing efforts to address the humanitarian crisis in Sudan, where violence has escalated dramatically.

A significant police presence has been reported across major cities in Tanzania, as authorities have urged citizens to remain indoors in anticipation of a planned protest. This crackdown follows a period of heightened tensions after recent elections, which have been marred by violence and allegations of human rights abuses.

The UN High Commissioner for Refugees visited Sudan to draw attention to the deepening humanitarian crisis, which has escalated two years into a civil war. The visit highlights the urgent need for international support as millions face dire conditions, including food shortages and displacement.