Rwanda-backed rebels have captured two major cities in Congo's mineral-rich east after a major escalation in their yearslong fighting against Congolese forces.

Rwanda-backed rebels have reached the center of east Congo’s second-largest city, Bukavu, and taken control of the South Kivu province administrative office

The UN's human rights chief accuses Rwanda-backed M23 rebels of killing children and attacking hospitals in eastern Congo. M23, having seized cities Bukavu and Goma, is accused of seeking control over Congo's mineral-rich region with Rwanda's support.