The M23 rebel group claims to have seized control of Goma, a major city in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), following intense clashes with government forces. However, DR Congo’s government denies the claims, stating that the Congolese army (FARDC) still controls strategic locations, including the airport.
Thousands Displaced as Conflict Escalates
Videos shared by residents show M23 fighters patrolling the streets, marking a significant advancement in their campaign against the Congolese army. The rapid military escalation has forced tens of thousands to flee from towns surrounding Goma, adding to the already dire humanitarian crisis. The UN refugee agency estimates that over 400,000 people have been displaced in North and South Kivu provinces since the beginning of 2025.
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Accusations Against Rwanda Fuel Regional Tensions
The conflict has further strained relations between DR Congo and Rwanda, with Congolese officials accusing Rwanda of sending troops across the border to support the M23 rebels. Rwanda has not denied backing M23 but has accused DR Congo of supporting militias that seek to overthrow the Rwandan government. The situation has prompted Kenya to call for an emergency regional summit, urging leaders to negotiate a ceasefire.
Goma Faces Crisis: Power Cuts, Prison Break, and Military Surrender
Reports indicate that key roads are blocked, making evacuation and humanitarian aid nearly impossible. The city’s main prison, housing 3,000 inmates, was set ablaze, leading to a mass jailbreak. Footage circulating online appears to show prisoners fleeing, with unverified reports of deaths during the escape.
Meanwhile, power and water supplies have been cut in several parts of Goma. The rebels had issued an ultimatum for government soldiers to surrender, and some Congolese troops reportedly handed over their weapons to UN peacekeepers before the deadline expired.
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International Calls for De-escalation
UN Secretary-General António Guterres has urged Rwanda to withdraw its forces and demanded that M23 rebels cease their offensive. His statement comes after 13 UN peacekeepers were killed in clashes with M23. The UK and France have echoed calls for an end to the violence, with France’s UN representative Nicolas de Rivière demanding Rwanda pull out of DRC territory.
In response, Rwanda’s UN representative Ernest Rwamucyo blamed the Congolese army for violating ceasefire agreements, arguing that the international community has unfairly condemned M23.
M23 Rebels and Rwanda’s Role in the Conflict
The M23 group originated in 2012 as an offshoot of another rebel faction, claiming to defend Tutsi populations in eastern DRC who face discrimination and persecution. Rwanda justifies its involvement by alleging that the Congolese government supports factions linked to the 1994 Rwandan genocide.
However, critics accuse Rwanda of backing M23 to exploit DRC’s vast mineral wealth, including gold, cobalt, and tantalum—essential resources for global industries.
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UN Withdraws Non-Essential Staff as Situation Worsens
As the violence escalates, the UN announced plans to withdraw non-essential personnel from Goma, citing safety concerns. With military confrontations intensifying, fears of a prolonged conflict continue to rise.
The coming days will be critical as regional leaders convene to discuss a possible ceasefire, but with the M23 firmly in control of large territories and the DR Congo government refusing to back down, a resolution remains uncertain.
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