The United Nations Security Council has sanctioned the leaders of six armed groups involved in the escalating violence in the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s northeastern region. The move includes imposing an arms embargo, travel ban, and asset freeze on the designated individuals. The conflict in the region has resulted in the displacement of nearly seven million people over the past three decades, with over 120 armed groups vying for control of the mineral-rich area. The recent resurgence of the M23 rebel group has intensified the fighting, leading to the Congolese army repositioning itself. The violence has worsened the already dire humanitarian situation, with a surge in cases of cholera and increased attacks against humanitarian actors. The government of President Felix Tshisekedi, who was recently re-elected, has pledged to quell the fighting and has relied on regional and international forces for support. Tshisekedi has also called for the withdrawal of the United Nations Mission in the DRC (MONUSCO) by the end of the year, citing its failure to protect civilians.
