M23 advances in DR Congo as violence escalates and tensions rise with Rwanda

The Rwandan-backed M23 group has advanced south in the Democratic Republic of Congo, capturing Goma, the capital of North Kivu province. The UN reports at least 700 deaths and 2,800 injuries from violence in the past week. A new military governor was sworn in for North Kivu after the previous governor was killed. M23 fighters are moving towards Kavumu, where the Congolese army has established defenses. Local volunteers are joining militias to combat the M23. International calls for Rwanda to withdraw its forces have increased, with some nations considering sanctions. The conflict has heightened tensions between Rwanda and South Africa following the deaths of South African peacekeepers in the region.