President of DR Congo returns from Davos as violence escalates at home

The President of the Democratic Republic of Congo has cut his trip to the World Economic Forum in Davos short due to escalating violence at home. Fighting has intensified in the eastern region, with M23 rebels capturing more territory. Since the start of the year, over 400,000 people have fled their homes as M23 advances toward Goma, a key city. The rebels recently took the town of Sake, although the Congolese army claims to have repelled their attack. The M23 has gained control of significant areas in eastern DR Congo since 2021, leading to widespread displacement. The UN has warned that the conflict could escalate into a larger regional war.