Rebels in DR Congo Take Key City

January 27, 2025: M23 rebels have claimed control of Goma, a key city in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), escalating tensions in the region. The DRC government described the seizure as a “declaration of war” by Rwanda, alleging direct involvement of Rwandan troops. Thousands of residents in the city of over two million have fled amid the chaos, with widespread panic reported.

Gunfire erupted in Goma shortly after the M23 announced its capture, which coincided with the expiration of a 48-hour deadline they had given to Congolese forces to surrender. Witnesses reported heavily armed rebels entering the city center, with M23 urging calm and calling for the military to assemble at a central stadium. The UN condemned the offensive, warning of a rapidly worsening humanitarian crisis in the mineral-rich region.

The DRC has cut diplomatic ties with Rwanda, accusing it of deploying 3,000–4,000 troops to support M23 rebels with advanced weaponry, including missiles and snipers. Rwanda has dismissed the allegations, stating its military actions are defensive due to border security threats posed by the conflict.

This crisis follows decades of instability in eastern DRC, where ethnic tensions, regional rivalries, and armed groups have fueled violence. The latest fighting has prompted the UN Security Council to demand the withdrawal of external forces, although its statement did not explicitly name Rwanda. UN Secretary-General António Guterres called Rwanda to pull out its troops, but Kigali rejected the demand.

Diplomatic efforts are underway to de-escalate the situation. Presidents Félix Tshisekedi of the DRC and Paul Kagame of Rwanda are expected to meet under Kenyan President William Ruto’s mediation. However, fears of a broader regional conflict remain high, with international pressure mounting on both nations.

The capture of Goma underscores the fragility of peace in the region and the dire need for a coordinated international response to prevent further humanitarian suffering and destabilization.