Congo rejects M23 rebels' ceasefire as fighting escalates in eastern region

Congo's government has rejected a ceasefire declared by M23 rebels, calling it "false communication." Fighting continues in eastern Congo, particularly in Goma, which remains under rebel control. The M23 has been gaining ground in the region. The United Nations reported heavy fighting in South Kivu, with no indication that M23 is advancing toward Bukavu. The rebels are backed by around 4,000 Rwandan troops, significantly more than in 2012 when they briefly captured Goma. Congo's interior minister reported a death toll of 2,000 from recent clashes, with bodies found in mass graves. The U.N. health agency previously reported at least 900 deaths in Goma. Regional leaders are set to meet in Tanzania to discuss the ongoing conflict.