UNITED NATIONS — The United Nations’ acting special envoy for Congo delivered an urgent warning to the Security Council on Thursday regarding the rapidly deteriorating security situation in mineral-rich eastern Congo. Vivian van de Perre reported that the conflict is intensifying and expanding geographically despite previous international pressure that forced Rwanda-backed M23 rebels to withdraw from Uvira in January.
The UN official highlighted two particularly concerning developments: the conflict’s expansion from North and South Kivu provinces into Tshopo province, and the increasing use of heavy weapons and offensive drones in urban areas that endanger civilian populations and critical infrastructure. Van de Perre, who leads the nearly 9,000-strong UN peacekeeping mission MONUSCO, expressed specific concern about recent incidents affecting Bangoka Airport in Kisangani and areas within Goma town.
Eastern Congo has endured decades of instability as government forces combat over 100 armed groups, with M23 being the most potent faction. The rebels made significant territorial gains early last year, capturing Goma and other key cities while expanding their control over mineral-rich areas. Van de Perre noted that M23 is now establishing parallel administrative structures in territories under its control, further undermining state authority and complicating humanitarian operations.
The situation in Ituri province remains alarming according to the envoy, with one rebel group linked to numerous casualties while another has been systematically attacking mining sites. The conflict’s expansion toward Burundi’s border raises the risk of regional conflagration, van de Perre warned.
Recent diplomatic efforts saw officials from Congo, Rwanda, and the United States meeting in Washington last week to coordinate de-escalation steps. Following her Security Council briefing, van de Perre emphasized to reporters that the “extremely volatile” situation requires implementation of all signed agreements, beginning with an immediate ceasefire followed by reopening airports and restoring freedom of movement for peacekeepers.
Massad Boulos, senior adviser to President Trump on African and Arab affairs who chaired the council meeting, stated that MONUSCO remains “indispensable to the success of the peace process” and that resolving the eastern Congo conflict represents “a matter of highest priority” for the Trump administration.