International Leaders Urge Peace Talks as Violence Escalates in Goma

Amid escalating violence in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, international calls for peace talks are intensifying, particularly regarding the conflict in Goma. Reports indicate that at least 17 people have died and nearly 400 have been injured, while South Africa has suffered the loss of 13 peacekeepers in clashes with M23 rebels. Congolese officials maintain that the army controls most of Goma, although M23 rebels contest this claim. Both South African President Cyril Ramaphosa and DR Congo President Félix Tshisekedi have emphasized the urgent need for a ceasefire and the resumption of peace talks. The African Union is set to hold an emergency meeting to address the situation. Additionally, the U.S. Secretary of State has condemned the violence and highlighted the necessity of diplomatic solutions to restore stability in the region.