Translation. Region: Russian Federation –
Source: United Nations – United Nations –
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December 11, 2025 Peace and security
Escalating clashes in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo have killed more than 70 civilians, forced over 200,000 people to flee their homes, and deprived thousands of people of food aid. Against this backdrop, the UN is warning of a rapidly growing humanitarian crisis that is already spreading beyond the country's borders.
The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) reported that the situation in South Kivu province has deteriorated sharply since December 2 due to heavy fighting in several areas.
Fighters from the armed group M23 entered the key town of Uvira on Wednesday, according to media reports, and local residents say an atmosphere of fear and uncertainty reigns.
"The Secretary-General is deeply concerned about the escalation of violence in South Kivu and its humanitarian consequences, including the displacement of more than 200,000 people since 2 December," said a statement issued by the UN chief's spokesman.
Antonio Guterres He strongly condemned the M23 offensive in the province. He called for an immediate and unconditional cessation of hostilities in accordance with Security Council Resolution 2773.
According to Radio Okapi, the radio station of the UN peacekeeping mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo, since the beginning of December, clashes between Congolese forces and armed groups have killed more than 74 civilians and injured at least 83. Thousands have fled across the border into Burundi and Rwanda.
Most displaced people in South Kivu itself are sheltering in overcrowded shelters with poor sanitation. Women and girls in these centers are at risk of violence.
Suspension of food aid
Humanitarian programmes, including food aid and medical support, cannot be implemented due to instability.
The UN World Food Programme (WFP) has suspended operations across South Kivu, leaving 25,000 people without food aid, UN Deputy Spokesperson Farhan Haq said.
"Host families, who are already experiencing extreme food insecurity themselves, are sharing their last remaining food supplies with the displaced families," Hak told reporters in New York.
At least 32 WFP-supported schools in Uvira closed classes to provide shelter to displaced families. More than 12,000 children were left without hot school meals, which for many are their only nutritious meal.
Humanitarian organizations warn that food supplies in the region could run out within weeks unless access and funding are restored.
The crisis could become regional
"The humanitarian consequences of the crisis are already extending beyond the country's borders," Hack said, noting that nearly 25,000 people crossed the border into Burundi between December 5 and 8. People are also fleeing to Rwanda.
In both countries, humanitarian organizations and authorities are expanding emergency relief operations, including providing hot food, clean water and medical services.
The escalation is occurring despite diplomatic efforts to reduce regional tensions. Last week, the Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda signed a peace agreement backed by the United States, which the UN called a "critical step" toward restoring trust.
The crisis deepens due to lack of funding
A lack of funding is exacerbating the humanitarian emergency. The humanitarian response plan in the Democratic Republic of the Congo is only 22 percent funded, leaving a $2 billion shortfall. In Burundi, less than $33 million has been mobilized, while nearly $77 million is needed.
“We call on all parties to the conflict to immediately cease hostilities, respect international humanitarian law, protect civilians and civilian infrastructure, and ensure safe, rapid and unimpeded access for humanitarian organizations,” Haq said.
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