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Units of a UN mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo
Photo: DJAFFAR SABITI / REUTERS
The number of civilians killed in an attack in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo has risen to 272, according to the government.
So far, about 50 dead had been mentioned.
According to local reports, many children were among those killed.
Congolese Industry Minister Julien Paluku announced the new number on Monday.
He also accused the M23 rebel group of being responsible for the November 29 massacre in the city of Kishishe, which they deny.
The government also said the M23 had been supported by members of the Rwandan army.
Rwanda has always denied such allegations.
The United Nations said last week that it had received reports of high civilian casualties during clashes between the M23 and local militias in Kishishe.
The Congolese army and the M23, a militia led by the Tutsi group, have been fighting in the east of the country for months.
The heads of state and government of Congo and Rwanda have met repeatedly to defuse the situation.
They had recently agreed on a ceasefire.
However, the fighting continued.
USA wants to mediate in the conflict
The United States has also gotten involved in the conflict.
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said he had "productive discussions" with Rwandan President Paul Kagame on the need for peace and security in eastern Congo.
Meanwhile, Rwandan Foreign Minister Vincent Biruta said there were still differences of opinion.
The fighting in the Republic of Congo is also increasingly worrying the neighboring countries in Central and East Africa.
M23 militias have launched several offensives in eastern Congo this year, making significant military advances for the first time since 2012.
Fighting with the Congolese army has driven thousands of people from their homes since March.
jok/Reuters