The Congo River Alliance led by Corneille Nangaa reports taking control of Goma, the city’s largest in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Rebels have advanced swiftly this month, pushing past Munigi and ordering government troops to dis arm and surrender. With civilians fleeing and flights grounded, Goma faces a humanitarian crisis. The UN Security Council discusses the potential regional conflict. Rwanda-backed M23 fighters declare victory, while DRC’s government denies their support. The Tutsi-led rebel group claims protection for its ethnic community but is viewed as Rwanda’s rival by the Rwandan government. Tensions escalate with the U.N. mission MONUSCO warning of a “trapped” city. Aid agencies urge governments to protect civilians amid growing violence.
Rebel leader Nangaa orders soldiers to surrender by 3 AM local time, while M23 fighters have reached out to the city’s stadium for final talks. The rebels are preparing to take over government forces and dissemble their bases. With the broader conflict in DRC already at a high risk of escalation due to the humanitarian crisis worsened by the rebel offensive, the world is watching closely.
Source: https://www.reuters.com/world/africa/un-peacekeeper-death-toll-eastern-congo-rises-six-2025-01-26