The United Nations has called for an immediate end to renewed fighting between the Democratic Republic of Congo’s armed forces and the M23 armed group.

UN human rights chief Volker Türk said the continued violence was killing, injuring and displacing civilians. It has also destroyed homes and livelihoods despite ongoing peace efforts.

Türk urged both the Congolese military and M23 to step back from further violence and urgently reduce tensions.

The appeal follows increased hostilities in the Fizi and Mwenga territories of South Kivu over the past two weeks.

Civilians Caught in Renewed Clashes

According to the UN, both sides have used armed drones, heavy artillery and other explosive weapons in areas populated by civilians.

The fighting has killed and injured residents while also destroying homes and livestock.

Intense clashes were reported around Mulima village in Fizi on 4 and 5 July. Türk called on both sides to take meaningful steps to protect residents in Mulima and across the wider Fizi and Mwenga plateau region.

He warned that explosive weapons with wide-area effects cause severe damage when used in populated communities and said their use must stop.

More Displacement Fears Grow

M23 has captured large parts of eastern DRC since it re-emerged in 2021. The region holds major reserves of gold, tin and coltan, which is widely used in electronics.

Türk warned that the latest fighting could force more civilians from their homes, including across the DRC’s borders into neighbouring countries.

He said all parties and their allies must allow humanitarian organisations safe, rapid and unhindered access to people in need.

The UN also urged Rwanda to end its alleged support for M23 and withdraw its troops from the DRC. Rwanda has repeatedly denied supporting the group.

Türk further called on Congolese authorities to strengthen efforts to disarm, demobilise and repatriate members of the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda.

A peace agreement between the DRC and Rwanda was reached under United States mediation in December. However, fighting in eastern DRC has continued.