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Rwanda-Backed M23 Rebels Capture Goma; South African Soldiers Killed, Embassies Attacked in Kinshasa

Jan 28, 2025, 12:09 PM

M23 rebels, backed by Rwanda, have captured Goma, the largest city in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, after intense fighting with the Congolese army. M23 spokesperson Willy Ngoma was seen leading a victory lap around Goma as his forces secured control. The fall of Goma has led to ongoing clashes resulting in at least 17 to 25 deaths and nearly 370 injuries. Hospitals in Goma are overwhelmed, with bodies lying in the streets. The United Nations Security Council held an emergency session, strongly condemning the M23 advances and calling for an immediate ceasefire. South African peacekeepers from the SANDF have been engaged in heavy clashes with M23 rebels; reports indicate that up to nine soldiers were killed near Goma Airport. The capture of Goma by M23 rebels raises concerns of a potential regional conflict, as Congo accuses Rwanda of supporting the insurgents and describes the situation as a "declaration of war." In Kinshasa, protests have erupted, with demonstrators attacking and ransacking the embassies of Rwanda, Uganda, Kenya, France, and the United States.