Fri Feb 07 13:17:00 UTC 2025: ## UN Warns of Further Bloodshed in DR Congo as Rwanda and DRC Trade Blame

**Geneva/Kinshasa** – The United Nations has issued a stark warning that the escalating conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) could worsen significantly, potentially spilling over borders. UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk told an emergency meeting of the Human Rights Council on Friday that the “worst may be yet to come,” urging immediate action to halt the violence.

The crisis, sparked by the recent seizure of Goma by the M23 rebel group and alleged Rwandan forces, has already claimed nearly 3,000 lives and displaced countless others, according to UN figures. Turk cautioned that the actual casualty count is likely far higher.

The DRC, which called for the emergency meeting, accused Rwanda of backing the M23 rebels and demanded an international investigation into alleged human rights abuses. Congolese Communication Minister Patrick Muyaya urged international pressure on Rwanda to cease its support for the armed groups and withdraw its troops.

However, Rwanda vehemently denied responsibility, with its UN ambassador, James Ngango, accusing the DRC of instability and alleging an imminent large-scale attack on Rwandan territory. He cited a weapons stockpile near Goma’s airport as evidence.

The conflicting accusations highlight the deep mistrust between the two nations. Amidst the escalating tension, Presidents Felix Tshisekedi of the DRC and Paul Kagame of Rwanda are scheduled to meet in Tanzania on Saturday for a regional summit aimed at de-escalating the crisis. The international community watches with growing concern as the humanitarian situation deteriorates and the potential for wider conflict looms large.

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