UN Report: Rwanda-Backed M23 Amasses 30,000 Troops in Eastern DRC and Establishes Parallel Administration in Eastern DRC

PORTLAND, MAINE — July 1st, 2026 — The Rwanda National Congress (RNC) strongly condemns the latest influx of Rwandan military reinforcements into the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). A new report by the United Nations Group of Experts reveals that the Rwanda-backed M23 rebel movement has expanded its forces to over 30,000 troops in the eastern region, bolstered by an additional deployment of 14,000 to 18,000 Rwandan military personnel.

The UN report highlights a critical escalation in the conflict, detailing two major developments:

Establishment of a Parallel Administration

M23 has transitioned from a transient guerrilla force into a structured parallel administration across North and South Kivu. The group now controls local public utilities, financial services, and the regional tax system.

Seizure of Critical Mineral Wealth

Rebel forces have consolidated control over major gold and tantalum mining hubs. These networks actively smuggle lucrative resources across the border into Rwanda to fund the ongoing war.

In response to these findings, the Rwanda National Congress (RNC) calls upon the United Nations, the United States, and the European Union, and the wider international community to strictly enforce sanctions against the Kagame regime for its continuous violation of the DRC’s territorial integrity.

About the Rwanda National Congress (RNC)

Founded in 2010, the RNC is a democratic political organization dedicated to promoting peace, unity, freedom, justice, and democracy in Rwanda. The RNC advocates for accountable governance, respect for human rights, national reconciliation, and the establishment of democratic institutions that serve all Rwandans without discrimination.