Rwanda-backed rebels who have captured eastern Congo’s largest city say they plan to take their rebellion to the capital and seek to gain political power

Officials and residents say Rwanda-backed rebels have gained ground in eastern Congo despite the unilateral ceasefire they declared earlier this week, taking control of a town 100 kilometers (60 miles) from the provincial capital of Bukavu.

The march by Rwanda-backed rebels across eastern Congo risks escalating into a regional conflict, with countries such as Burundi, Uganda, and Tanzania already involved. Despite diplomatic efforts, tensions remain high.

Condemnation has grown over Rwanda's military backing of the insurgency by M23 rebels in eastern Congo, near the border between the two nations. President Paul Kagame has become increasingly isolated and,