Briefing the Security Council, MONUSCO Deputy Head Vivian van de Perre says clashes between government forces and the AFC/M23 rebels are now reaching Tshopo Province—far from the usual frontlines in North and South Kivu.
She says the conflict is becoming more advanced and dangerous, with increased use of offensive drones and widespread jamming of GPS signals in urban areas.
Incidents have already been reported around Bangoka Airport in Kisangani and in the eastern city of Goma—raising serious concerns for civilian safety and infrastructure.
The UN also warns that restricted access is limiting its ability to monitor abuses, while journalists and human rights defenders in rebel-held areas face intimidation and arbitrary arrests.
The humanitarian situation is worsening, with about 26-point-6 million people—roughly a quarter of the population—expected to face food insecurity this year.
Meanwhile, DR Congo has accused Rwanda of backing the M23 rebels.
Addressing the Council, Ambassador Zénon Ngay Mukongo described it as a serious violation of his country’s sovereignty, adding that hundreds have been killed and millions displaced.
