The United Nations peacekeeping mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO) expressed deep concern on Saturday over reports of a drone strike in Masisi Centre, North Kivu Province, where clashes between Congolese forces and the March 23 Movement (M23) rebel group persist. MONUSCO called for independent verification of the incident and condemned attacks affecting civilians, emphasizing compliance with international humanitarian law.
Humanitarian Toll Mounts
Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) reported at least 42 casualties, including women and children, following Friday's airstrike on a residential area. Two patients later succumbed to shrapnel injuries at Masisi General Referral Hospital. The region remains a flashpoint in the decades-long conflict, exacerbated by renewed M23 activity since late 2021.
Regional Stability at Risk
Fighting spread to South Kivu Province on Saturday, with clashes between M23 fighters and pro-government Wazalendo militias near Uvira—a strategic town previously captured by rebels in late 2022. The Congolese government maintains accusations of Rwandan support for M23, which Kigali continues to deny. MONUSCO reiterated calls for adherence to ceasefire agreements amid ongoing diplomatic mediation efforts.
