In the Democratic Republic of Congo, the UN is warning more than 100,000 refugees are cut off from aid behind rebel lines. Some 250,000 people have been displaced in fighting between government forces and rebel militias in eastern Congo since August. UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon appealed for an immediate ceasefire.

UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon: “But at least 100,000 refugees are cut off in areas north of the city, chiefly around Rutshuru and East Masisi. Because of the ongoing fighting, these people have received virtually no assistance. Their situation has grown increasingly desperate. I urgently call for an immediate ceasefire in these areas to allow humanitarian assistance to reach many thousands of displaced persons.”

Both sides have been accused of war crimes. On Tuesday, the UN said hundreds of Congolese soldiers committed rape and pillage in several villages as they pulled back from a rebel advance.