UN Chief: Stop Fighting in Congo Now

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has issued an urgent call for all fighters in the Democratic Republic of the Congo to lay down their arms. The demand follows a major increase in violence in the country's eastern South Kivu province. Guterres specifically called for an immediate and unconditional stop to the fighting. He stated this must happen "in line with Security Council resolution 2773." This resolution by the UN's most powerful body demands an end to the conflict. The escalating clashes threaten civilian lives and worsen a severe humanitarian crisis in the region. The UN has repeatedly warned of the dangers posed by the armed groups operating in eastern Congo. Guterres's statement increases international pressure on the warring parties. However, it is unclear if the groups will follow the directive to cease fire.