M23 Rebels, Backed by Rwanda, Advance on Goma, Killing North Kivu Governor and 13 Foreign Soldiers

Jan 25, 2025, 12:10 PM

In eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, intense fighting between the Congolese army and the M23 rebels, supported by Rwanda, has led to significant casualties and displacement. The conflict has escalated around the city of Goma, with M23 rebels advancing towards the city, prompting international concern. The military governor of North Kivu, Major General Peter Cirimwami, was killed by a sniper during the clashes. The United Nations peacekeeping mission, MONUSCO, reported that nine of its peacekeepers were injured in the fighting. Additionally, at least 13 foreign soldiers from South Africa, Malawi, and Uruguay were killed in the recent clashes, including a Uruguayan soldier. The M23 issued a 48-hour ultimatum to the Congolese army to surrender in Goma. Reports indicate that the Rwandan army is poised to invade to assist the rebels in seizing the city. The UN has temporarily relocated non-essential staff from Goma due to the deteriorating security situation, while essential personnel remain to continue critical operations. The conflict has displaced over 400,000 people since the beginning of the year, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis in the region. An emergency meeting of the UN Security Council has been scheduled to address the situation, and the Southern African Development Community Mission in DRC (SAMIDRC) reported casualties among its forces.