M23 Rebels Seize Control of Goma in DR Congo

goma, democratic republic of congo - Rebel group M23 takes control of Goma city in the Democratic Republic of Congo after intense clashes with the army.

M23 Rebels Seize Control of Goma

In a significant development, the Rwanda-backed M23 rebel group has captured control of Goma city in the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of Congo, following clashes with the government forces. The Foreign Minister of DR Congo, Christophe Lutundula, stated that Rwanda declared war by sending troops to support the rebels. After heavy fighting in Goma, the M23 rebels have taken over the city. The UN reports that main roads around Goma are closed, and the city's airport is inaccessible for evacuations and humanitarian aid.

100 Congolese Soldiers Surrender

The Uruguayan troops in the United Nations Peacekeeping Mission in DR Congo (MONUSCO) announced that the rebels called on government soldiers to surrender at 03:00 local time, and 100 Congolese soldiers have laid down their arms. MONUSCO staff and their families were evacuated to Rwanda on 10 buses.

International Calls for Ceasefire

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres urged Rwanda to stop supporting the rebels and withdraw its troops from DR Congo. He also called on the M23 rebels to end hostilities immediately and retreat from the occupied areas. The UK demanded an end to attacks on peacekeeping forces, while France's UN representative called for MONUSCO's withdrawal from DR Congo. Kenya's Foreign Ministry announced that President William Ruto will convene an urgent meeting of heads of state within the East African Community bloc to address the situation.

M23 Rebel Group Background

Formed in 2012 as an offshoot of another rebel group, the M23 rebel group claims its goal is to protect the Tutsi population in eastern DR Congo, who have long complained of persecution and discrimination. Both DR Congo and the UN accuse M23 of being backed by Rwanda. While Rwanda denies the allegations, the current conflict places the blame on DR Congo. Some parties allege that Rwanda uses M23 to exploit minerals like gold, cobalt, and tantalum in eastern DR Congo.