Romanian mercenaries were seen crossing into Rwanda as M23 rebels took control of Goma. The Romanian foreign ministry confirmed that some of their contractors were trapped in Goma. Reports indicate that 288 European mercenaries, primarily Romanians, have moved to Rubavu. The M23 group, allegedly backed by Rwanda, has been gaining ground, prompting DR Congo to hire private military companies for defense. The UN Security Council has called for an end to the offensive and the withdrawal of external forces. The conflict is rooted in ethnic tensions and competition for mineral resources in DR Congo.