The M23 rebel group has withdrawn its fighters from several areas in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, the group, local residents and the country's military said on Monday.

The retreat marks the first significant frontline shift since the rebels briefly seized the city of Uvira in December before withdrawing under international pressure.

According to the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (FARDC), the move came after increased military operations and diplomatic efforts led by the United States, which has been pushing for the implementation of a fragile peace agreement between the Congolese government and the M23.

The rebels reportedly pulled out of several areas north of Uvira near the border with Burundi, including the strategic town of Sange, a key crossroads about 30 kilometers north of Uvira.

Army spokesperson Lieutenant Reagan Mbuyi said the M23 also withdrew from Kabunambo, Mutarule and Bwegera.

A senior local official, Paul Fikiri Mudeda, confirmed the rebels had left Sange, while residents said pro-government militias known as “Wazalendo” fighters had since moved into the town.

An M23 security source also confirmed the withdrawal, saying the group was returning to positions it had held before advancing on Uvira.

However, the rebels continue to control Kamanyola, a town near the borders of DR Congo, Rwanda and Burundi.

The latest developments come amid continued instability in eastern DR Congo, where the M23 has captured large areas since resuming its insurgency in 2021.

The withdrawal also follows recent US sanctions against former Congolese president Joseph Kabila over alleged ties to the AFC/M23 alliance. Kabila has denied the accusations.

Civil society groups in Uvira said some Congolese families who had fled violence to neighboring Burundi have begun returning home following the rebel withdrawal.