The rebels admit to facing stiff resistance, but insist they continue to advance on Kinshasa on all fronts. The end should come very swiftly. I do not see the hold-out on Kinshasa lasting long. Kabila's rebels, who took up arms in October in a dispute over Zairian nationality for ethnic Tutsis, control three quarters of Africa's third largest country. For the most part, rebel troops have overwhelmed the government soldiers.
Witnesses say the government troops have done little more that loot, pillage and retreat.
But Kinshasa is being defended by a core group of soldiers loyal to Zaire President Mobutu Sese Seko, and they appear willing to fight for their longtime leader. Peace talks, mediated by South African President Nelson Mandela, are scheduled Wednesday aboard a ship stationed off the African coast. Mandela chaired an inconclusive initial meeting on May 4. Since then, Kabila's rebels have been talking tough. South Africa's Deputy President Thabo Mbeki said the meeting may prove a last chance for a negotiated solution.