Mon Jan 27 15:46:02 UTC 2025: ## M23 Rebels Claim Goma Capture Amidst Escalating DRC Conflict

**Goma, DRC –** Fighting has intensified in and around Goma, the capital of North Kivu province in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), leading to a mass exodus of residents. The Rwanda-backed M23 rebel group claims to have seized the city, though the Congolese government hasn’t confirmed complete control by the rebels. Gunfire erupted overnight, followed by the visible presence of M23 rebels in the city center Monday morning.

The Congolese government, while acknowledging the presence of M23 fighters in Goma, urged citizens to remain indoors and called for international support. Government spokesman Patrick Muyaya vowed that “no centimetre will be given up.”

The M23, one of numerous armed groups operating in the mineral-rich region, previously occupied Goma in 2012 before being forced out. Their resurgence, accompanied by increased activity since late 2021, has been attributed by the Congolese government and UN experts to Rwandan support, a claim denied by Rwanda.

Rwanda’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs countered that the DRC’s refusal to engage in dialogue with the M23, described as a “Congolese rebel group,” has prolonged the conflict and poses a threat to Rwanda’s security, necessitating its defensive actions. The escalating violence comes despite calls from the UN Security Council for the M23 to withdraw. The situation remains volatile and raises serious concerns about regional stability.

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