Translation. Region: Russian Federation –
Source: United Nations – United Nations –
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December 12, 2025 Peace and security
The Democratic Republic of the Congo is plunging into a profound crisis: both the security and humanitarian situations are deteriorating. This was stated by Under-Secretary-General for Peacekeeping Operations Jean-Pierre Lacroix at a meeting of the UN Security Council.
The M23 offensive in South Kivu has revived fears of a wider regional escalation, as the rebel group's territorial expansion, the creation of parallel administrations and the weakening of the state presence lead to fragmentation in the east of the country.
"This development threatens not only the stability of eastern DRC, but also the stability of the entire Great Lakes region," Lacroix said.
Noting the diplomatic progress achieved through the Washington Agreements and the Doha process, Lacroix called for the implementation of resolution 2773 (2025).
The M23 offensive in South Kivu and the capture of the town of Uvira, allegedly with the support of the Rwandan Defence Forces, triggered a military escalation just days after the signing of the Washington Accords.
Congolese armed forces, supported by the Burundian armed forces and the pro-government Wazalendo militia, engaged in large-scale military operations using heavy artillery and airstrikes. These clashes resulted in casualties among military personnel and civilians, destruction of infrastructure, and significant displacement. Thousands fled across the border into Burundi and Rwanda.
Lacroix spoke about the dire humanitarian situation: there are approximately 5.35 million internally displaced persons registered in the country, and more than 24 million people are facing acute food shortages.
Doctors Without Borders head Javid Abdelmoneim reported the collapse of the healthcare system and a severe shortage of medicines. Medical facilities are being attacked.
He said both armed groups and state forces were committing serious violations, including killings, looting and sexual violence, with the vast majority of cases targeting civilians.
Lacroix stressed that the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO) continues its vital work to protect the population, despite serious restrictions.
"MONUSCO will continue to carry out its mandate professionally and resolutely. With the support of the Security Council, it is ready to contribute fully to ongoing peace efforts," Lacroix said.
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