U.K. authorities are punishing Rwanda over its support of the rebels who now control two major cities in eastern Congo.

Residents say Rwanda-backed rebels appear to be heading toward a third major city in eastern Congo. International pressure rose Tuesday over the M23’s expansion in the mineral-rich region that’s critical for global technology.

Residents and business owners in eastern Congo’s second largest city are sitting in wait after a night of loud gunfire marking the ongoing advance of Rwanda-backed rebels.

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.

Britain on Tuesday said it would pause some bilateral aid to Rwanda over its role in the conflict in neighbouring Congo. A statement from the British government said that until there was significant progress in ending hostilities and the withdrawal of all Rwanda Defence Forces from Congolese territory,

Britain will introduce sanctions soon against Rwanda over fighting in neighbouring Congo, a minister in the UK Foreign Office told Reuters on Monday. Asked if Britain would impose sanctions on Rwanda,

Rwanda is facing mounting pressure over its role in the DRC conflict, with the UK announcing fresh aid restrictions and limitations on bilateral relations. ・UK announces aid restrictions and limitations on bilateral relations with Rwanda over DRC conflict ・Rwanda faces scrutiny for alleged support of M23 rebel group in eastern DRC ・Calls for