The north-eastern region of the Democratic Republic of Congo is descending into an increasingly violent fight over mineral and economic resources, the UN says, with significant involvement from neighbouring Uganda.

But the UN mission is ready to use force if necessary, it adds, in order to protect civilians. “Monuc [the UN mission] will continue as we have done to fulfil our mandate. Our purpose is to provide security for civilians,” said Margaret Carey, head of the Africa division. “We will take action as appropriate. Peacekeeping is robust now: this is a change from the old days.”