Fall of Uvira: Burundi Closes Border to Prevent Incursions

Uvira - Following the capture of Uvira by M23 rebels on Wednesday, December 10, 2025, Burundi announced the immediate closure of its border with the DRC, citing the need to protect itself from any attempted incursion. Thousands of displaced Congolese are already seeking refuge in Burundi, as the humanitarian crisis deepens.

The closure followed the withdrawal of the Congolese army the previous day to Swima, Makobola, and Baraka, leaving the town vulnerable. M23 elements, reportedly supported by Rwanda, appeared publicly in Uvira late in the morning after a sweep operation, a presence confirmed by residents and the rebels themselves.

The United States and the European Union called for an immediate halt to the offensive in eastern DRC, while Congolese authorities had not issued an official response by late Wednesday afternoon.