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.

The U.N. Security Council has urged Rwanda to halt its backing of the M23 rebels in eastern Congo, insisting on troop withdrawal and renewed diplomacy. Allegations of mineral exploitation by rebels and Congo's use of FDLR fighters have complicated efforts for regional stability.

The United States announced sanctions against a Rwandan official and a Rwandan-backed rebel in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo over a rapidly expanding war in the area. On Thursday, the departments of State and Treasury announced sanctions against Rwandan Minister of State for Regional Integration James Kabarebe and Lawrence Kanyuka Kingston,