The European Union and France condemned the attacks on foreign embassies in the DR Congo amid escalating violence from M23 rebels, allegedly backed by Rwanda. The assaults on embassies highlight the protests against foreign involvement in Congolese conflicts, prompting international calls for accountability and immediate action to protect diplomatic missions.
On January 28, 2025, the European Union condemned the recent attacks on foreign embassies in the Democratic Republic of Congo. EU spokesman Kaja Kallas emphasized the necessity of protecting diplomatic missions under the Vienna Convention. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot denounced the assault on the French embassy in Kinshasa, asserting that such actions are intolerable and measures are being taken to ensure the safety of personnel and citizens.
Numerous embassies, including those of Belgium, the Netherlands, Kenya, Rwanda, Uganda, and the United States, have faced attacks amid escalating tensions caused by fighting in eastern Congo. Protesters targeted these diplomatic establishments, with some engaging in looting and arson while police deployed tear gas to control the crowds.
The protests were triggered by the advancing M23 rebels, allegedly backed by Rwanda, towards Goma, a pivotal city in the conflict-affected eastern region. Demonstrators demand that the international community exert pressure on Rwanda to cease its involvement, expressing their frustration over perceived hypocrisy.
In response to the situation, Germany’s development ministry has canceled upcoming government consultations with Rwanda and is coordinating with other donor countries regarding further actions. They emphasized that cooperation can only resume once hostilities cease and M23 withdraws from Goma.
Protesters also allege that foreign nations share responsibility for the unrest, pointing to claims of Rwandan troops participating in the conflict. The M23 group is one among approximately 100 armed factions vying for control in the mineral-rich eastern territory of Congo, raising significant concerns about regional stability and security.
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is currently facing a severe security crisis due to advances made by M23 rebels, who are reportedly backed by Rwanda. This situation has fed into broader tensions between local protesters and foreign nations, particularly regarding alleged foreign intervention and complicity. This has led to violent protests, including attacks on embassies, as citizens express their outrage and call for international accountability. The Vienna Convention underscores the importance of safeguarding diplomatic missions, which has prompted strong reactions from European nations, particularly as violence escalates in the region.
The recent assaults on foreign embassies in the Democratic Republic of Congo highlight escalating tensions amid advancing M23 rebels, believed to receive Rwandan support. The European Union and France have expressly condemned these attacks, emphasizing the need for the protection of diplomatic missions. With the international community under increasing pressure to respond, the situation calls for urgent measures to ensure peace and stability in the region.
Original Source: www.dw.com
