UN Calls For Immediate Ceasefire In Eastern DR Congo Amid Escalating Violence

The United Nations’ special envoy to the Democratic Republic of Congo, Bintou Keita, has called for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire as Rwanda-backed M23 rebels continue their advance in eastern Congo.

“There is no military solution that will end this suffering. Peace, security, and development in eastern DRC require an end to violence and a commitment to inclusive dialogue and reconciliation,” Keita stated during a press briefing on Friday.

The M23 rebels, supported by thousands of Rwandan troops, have captured two major cities in Congo’s mineral-rich east in less than a month, raising fears of a wider regional conflict.

The group first seized Goma before advancing to Bukavu, marking their most significant territorial gains in over a decade.

Keita revealed that 1,400 high-risk individuals have sought protection from the UN peacekeeping mission, MONUSCO, following the fall of Goma. She emphasized the urgent need for a safe and dignified solution to relocate them.

MONUSCO has condemned atrocities committed by M23, as well as attacks by the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), another armed group responsible for brutal assaults on civilians.

Meanwhile, the UN Human Rights Council has launched an investigation into alleged war crimes, including summary executions and sexual violence by all parties involved.

As tensions rise, international pressure mounts on all sides to halt hostilities and seek a diplomatic resolution to the crisis.