Clashes Continue in Eastern Congo Days After Attack on Civilians Left Many Dead
Fighting between M23 rebels and pro-Congo militias was underway on Sunday in Nyabiondo, about 100 km (62 miles) north of Goma in eastern Congo, residents said, days after a nearby attack left a heavy civilian death toll, according to the United Nations and an NGO. The Rwanda-backed rebel group M23 has seized swathes of mineral-rich eastern Congo since the start of the year. US officials have expressed interest in exploring critical minerals partnerships with the Democratic Republic of Congo.
- The ongoing instability in eastern Congo highlights the need for sustained diplomatic efforts to address the root causes of conflict, including poverty, ethnic tensions, and competition over resources.
- What role will regional powers, such as Rwanda and Uganda, play in mediating the conflict and supporting peace negotiations in the coming months?