United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called for an immediate ceasefire in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) as fighting intensifies in the eastern region. In phone conversations on Tuesday with the presidents of the DRC and Rwanda, Guterres expressed deep concern over the escalating conflict and its impact on civilians.
According to UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric, Guterres urged Rwanda to cease support for the M23 rebel group and withdraw any forces from the DRC. “The Secretary-General discussed the situation in the DRC and has been very clear both publicly and privately about the need for Rwanda to cease support to the M23 and withdraw from the DRC,” Dujarric said during a briefing.
The M23 rebels have advanced toward Goma, the largest city in eastern DRC, seizing control of key areas, including the airport. Despite Rwanda’s denials of involvement, tensions have risen between the neighboring countries over allegations of support for the rebel group.
The situation in Goma remains tense, with reports of armed clashes in multiple regions such as Masisi, Rutshuru, and Nyiragongo. “M23 forces are inside the city, and UN peacekeeping personnel have largely been forced to shelter in their bases,” Dujarric reported. He also noted that medical facilities are overwhelmed and essential services have been disrupted.
Humanitarian organizations have expressed alarm over the deteriorating conditions. The Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) described the situation as “worrying,” highlighting issues like gender-based violence, looting of property, and attacks on health facilities. Electricity and water supplies have been cut off, and while phone networks are operational, internet services remain down.
Dujarric emphasized the UN’s commitment to addressing the crisis but acknowledged the challenges. “The movement of essential supplies and personnel is an urgent concern as hostilities complicate humanitarian efforts,” he said. “If the situation is calm tomorrow, we expect aid workers to resume their efforts to respond to the enormous humanitarian needs.”
Meanwhile, protests have erupted in the capital city of Kinshasa, where demonstrators have targeted UN premises and several embassies, setting fires and engaging in looting. The unrest reflects growing frustration over the ongoing violence in the eastern DRC and the perceived lack of progress in resolving the conflict.
The UN continues to call for all parties to cease hostilities and engage in dialogue to restore peace and stability in the region. The international community watches closely as the humanitarian crisis unfolds, urging immediate action to protect civilians and provide much-needed assistance.
