Rebels backed by Rwanda capture Goma in eastern Congo

The M23 militia, supported by Rwanda, has announced the capture of Goma in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. This marks a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict, as Goma is a key city for the region. M23 previously occupied Goma in 2012 but was defeated and inactive for nearly a decade. The group now aims to maintain control and exploit the area's rare minerals. A spokesman for M23 claimed that Congolese military personnel surrendered their weapons. However, reports of gunfire in Goma continued, indicating uncertainty about the situation on the ground.