The head of the UN peacekeeping mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (MONUSCO), Bintou Keita, has issued an urgent appeal for action to address the escalating crisis in the eastern DR Congo, stating, “We are trapped.”
Keita made this appeal on Sunday while briefing the UN Security Council in New York about the worsening situation. The non-state armed group M23 continues to advance on cities in the region, with reports of civilian and peacekeeper casualties.
The growing violence has prompted an emergency Security Council meeting, as blocked roads and restricted airport access hinder evacuation efforts and humanitarian assistance. M23 has declared Goma airport “closed” and falsely accused the Congolese Armed Forces (FARDC) of using it to launch airstrikes against civilians.
“We are trapped. I call on this Council to act now to protect civilians, humanitarian workers, and all United Nations personnel,” Keita said.
She also reported that despite MONUSCO’s ongoing support to FARDC, M23 and Rwandan forces have breached the Munigi quarter on the outskirts of Goma, causing mass panic and forcing residents to flee.
Bruno Lemarquis, the Humanitarian Coordinator in DR Congo, expressed deep concern over the intensifying fighting near Goma and its devastating impact on civilians. He highlighted that since M23’s renewed offensives on January 23, 2025, hundreds of thousands of people have been displaced, overwhelming already overstretched reception and aid capacities.
Displacement sites around Goma, home to more than 300,000 people, have been evacuated within hours, leaving vulnerable populations without shelter. Humanitarian workers in Goma continue to provide critical assistance despite deteriorating security conditions in both displacement camps and urban areas.
The proximity of heavy fighting to densely populated areas, coupled with the use of heavy artillery, poses extreme risks to civilians. Hospitals in Goma are struggling to cope with the influx of casualties, even with support from humanitarian organizations.
The UN has called for immediate and decisive action to protect civilians and restore peace in the region.
