Goma, Jan 27 (V7N) - Gunfire erupted Sunday night in Goma, the embattled capital of the Democratic Republic of Congo’s North Kivu province, as the government accused Rwanda of sending additional troops to aid the M23 rebels in their push to capture the city. Explosions shook the city before calm returned at midnight, though it was unclear if the M23 had made significant advances.

Kenya announced that DR Congo's President Felix Tshisekedi and Rwanda's President Paul Kagame agreed to attend a regional summit in the coming days to address the escalating crisis. The conflict, rooted in decades of regional tensions and militia activity, has claimed the lives of several foreign peacekeepers and displaced millions.

DR Congo labeled Rwanda’s actions as a "declaration of war" and called on the UN to impose sanctions. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres urged Rwanda to withdraw its troops, but Kigali defended its military presence near the border, citing threats to its own security.

Diplomatic ties between the two nations have collapsed, with both recalling ambassadors amid heightened tensions. The M23, reportedly backed by thousands of Rwandan troops, has rapidly advanced toward Goma, home to over a million residents. The UN has accused Rwanda of exploiting the DRC's mineral wealth through the rebel group, allegations Kigali denies.

The M23 previously occupied Goma in 2012 but withdrew under a peace deal. Despite multiple ceasefires over the years, fighting has continued. Recent clashes have led to the deaths of 13 peacekeepers from South Africa, Malawi, and Uruguay, underscoring the severity of the conflict.

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