Thousands flee Goma as M23 rebels advance in eastern DR Congo

Tens of thousands are fleeing eastern DR Congo as M23 rebels advance on Goma, a city of over a million. Explosions and gunfire were reported, with rebels claiming they will take control soon. The situation escalated after DR Congo accused Rwanda of supporting the rebels. Rwanda denies this, stating it is in a defensive position. The UN reports over 400,000 people have been displaced since January 2025. UN Secretary General António Guterres has called for Rwanda to withdraw its troops and for M23 to halt its advance. The UN is also pulling non-essential staff from Goma amid ongoing violence.