Armed clashes between the Congolese army and the M23 rebel group have escalated in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). On January 22, the town of Minova, located 20 kilometers west of Goma, came under M23 control. Fighting spread to Sake the following day, with reports of heavy clashes involving artillery and air support.
United Nations sources estimate that 3,000 to 4,000 Rwandan troops are operating alongside M23 forces. Rwanda has called for direct negotiations between Kinshasa and the M23, a proposal rejected by the Congolese government. Meanwhile, the DRC is advocating for international sanctions against Rwanda, a topic expected to be addressed at the African Union summit in February.
The recents offensives has displaced thousands, straining local medical facilities. Humanitarian organizations have highlighted challenges in managing war-related injuries amid growing concerns over the security of Goma, a city of over one million residents.