Rebels claim control of Goma as panic spreads among residents in eastern Congo

Rwanda-backed M23 rebels have claimed control of Goma, eastern Congo's largest city, causing panic among its 2 million residents. The Congolese government labeled the rebel advance a "declaration of war" as violence escalates in the region. The rebels issued a surrender ultimatum to the Congolese army before capturing the city. The United Nations reported significant displacement in North Kivu province, with many civilians fleeing Goma amid fears of increased violence. Congo has severed diplomatic ties with Rwanda, accusing it of supporting the M23. The U.N. has condemned the offensive, and peacekeepers are processing surrendering Congolese soldiers as the situation deteriorates.