Crisis deepens in eastern DR Congo as M23 rebels advance

In a dramatic escalation of the conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, Rwanda-backed M23 rebels have entered the outskirts of Goma, the region’s largest city, prompting the Congolese government to sever diplomatic ties with Rwanda and declare it an “act of war.”

The rapid M23 advance has triggered mass panic among the city’s two million residents, with thousands fleeing their homes. The UN has described the situation as critical, with the M23 advancing while using civilians as human shields.

Thirteen peacekeepers, including soldiers from South Africa, Malawi, and Uruguay, have been killed in the fighting, and the UN has called for an immediate ceasefire.

The Congolese government accuses Rwanda of directly supporting the M23 rebellion, a claim Rwanda denies. However, evidence gathered by UN experts and others strongly suggests Rwandan military involvement in the conflict.

This latest escalation marks a significant turning point in the conflict, raising serious concerns about regional stability and the potential for a wider regional war.

The international community has condemned the M23’s advance and called for an immediate cessation of hostilities. However, the situation remains extremely volatile, with the humanitarian crisis deepening and the threat of further escalation looming large.

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