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Rwandan-Backed M23 Rebels Capture Goma, Congo Declares 'War'

Jan 27, 2025, 01:28 AM

Rwandan-backed M23 rebels have captured the city of Goma in eastern Congo, marking a significant escalation in the region's ongoing conflict. The rebels announced the city's capture early Monday, following a 48-hour deadline for the Congolese army to surrender their weapons. The advance into Goma, a key city with a population of around 2 million, caused mass panic among residents and led to the shutdown of the local airport. The Congolese government has labeled the rebel advance as a 'declaration of war,' and has severed diplomatic ties with Rwanda, which is accused of supporting the M23 despite Rwanda's denials. The United Nations has condemned the offensive, calling for an immediate halt to hostilities and the withdrawal of Rwandan forces from Congolese territory. The conflict has already displaced millions and threatens to further exacerbate one of Africa's longest wars.