A confidential United Nations report has concluded that Rwanda exercises command and control over the M23 rebel group during its military advances in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The report indicates that Rwanda has hosted M23 leaders and recruits for training and provided critical support to the rebels' recent offensive. This involvement has enabled Kigali to gain political influence and secure access to mineral-rich territories in eastern Congo. The UN experts also accuse Rwanda of smuggling minerals at unprecedented levels. The M23 rebels have acknowledged their alignment with Kigali and have expressed willingness to continue peace talks with the DRC government, which began in Doha. The report highlights Rwanda's pivotal role in the fall of key cities such as Goma and Bukavu in the eastern DRC.