Heavy clashes between Congolese forces and M23 rebels continue in eastern Congo, despite a ceasefire announced earlier this week. The UN warns of a worsening humanitarian crisis as thousands are displaced and key areas fall under rebel control.
Fighting in eastern Congo escalated on Monday (February 3) as the ceasefire between Congolese forces and M23 rebels collapsed. The United Nations confirmed intense battles near Bukavu in South Kivu, with rebels advancing and seizing the strategic mining town of Nyabibwe.
Deputy UN envoy Vivian Van De Perre described the situation in Goma as "highly volatile," warning that all exit routes and the airport remain under M23 control.
"The situation is still highly volatile with a persistent risk of escalation," she said.
The humanitarian toll is rising rapidly. Van De Perre reported that 2,000 bodies have been collected from the streets of Goma in recent days, while hospitals struggle to manage the increasing casualties.
"We expect this number to go up," she added.
With no end to the violence in sight, thousands of civilians are fleeing the conflict zones, while the international community closely monitors the situation.
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