
In the latest surge of violence in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), thirteen peacekeepers have been killed as fighting intensifies between Congolese forces and M23 fighters backed by Rwanda.
The peacekeepers, from South Africa, Malawi, and Uruguay, were serving under various peacekeeping mandates.
The deaths occurred over several days of fierce clashes near Goma, a key city in the mineral-rich east of the DRC.
The South African National Defence Force confirmed nine of its soldiers had died by January 24, following two days of brutal combat.
Seven of these soldiers were part of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) regional force, while two were working as UN peacekeepers.
Malawi and Uruguay also reported losses: three Malawian soldiers and one Uruguayan peacekeeper were killed.
The United Nations (UN) peacekeeping force MONUSCO has been actively engaged in fighting M23, using heavy artillery to defend Goma.
The situation remains volatile, with more than 100 people wounded since the violence flared earlier in the week.
Goma, already a hub of conflict for decades, is now facing an even more dire humanitarian crisis.
Over 400,000 people have fled their homes since early January, and the International Committee of the Red Cross is treating the wounded.
International calls for an immediate ceasefire have intensified. The African Union and European Union both urged an end to the fighting.
The European Union condemned Rwanda’s military support for M23, calling it a breach of international law.
As tensions rise, Rwanda has criticized the UN peacekeeping force, accusing them of provocative language.
Meanwhile, the UN continues its evacuation of non-essential personnel from the area.