Congo's leader calls for massive military mobilization as Rwanda-backed rebels expand their control

Amid escalating conflict in eastern Congo, President Felix Tshisekedi urged young people to enlist against Rwanda-backed M23 rebels, who have seized key areas, including parts of Goma and South Kivu. A regional summit called for peace talks, but Tshisekedi was absent. Rwanda’s leader, Paul Kagame, threatened South Africa over its involvement after 13 peacekeepers were killed. Analysts warn of a prolonged crisis driven by control over Congo’s vast mineral wealth.