- A mine collapse in eastern DR Congo, controlled by the M23 rebel group, has killed over 200 people.
- The mine produces coltan, a vital ore for electronics, representing over 15% of the world’s tantalum supply.
- The UN reports these mines fund the M23’s offensive, prompting US mediation efforts amid ongoing conflict with the DRC government.

A: Hey Hana-chan! Did you hear any news today?

B: Oh, hi Ken! No, what's up?

A: It’s really sad… There was a mine collapse in Congo.

B: Wow, really? What happened?

A: Apparently, over 200 people died. It’s in the east of the country.

B: That's terrible! What were they mining?

A: Coltan. It’s used in our phones and electronics, I think.

B: Seriously? That’s crazy! So, a lot of tantalum comes from there, huh?

A: Yeah, like, a big chunk of the world’s supply.

B: But why did it collapse?

A: They dig by hand, apparently. Not very safe.

B: That sounds so dangerous! And I read something about a rebel group…

A: It's this group called M23. They control the mine.

B: Are they causing trouble too?

A: It seems so. They're fighting the government. Rwanda is reportedly helping them.

B: That's a complicated situation… So, the mines are even funding their fights?

A: That's what the UN says.

B: It’s so sad. I heard Trump tried to help with peace talks, right?

A: Right! Because of all this interest in these minerals. It's a tough situation.