The European Union and France condemned attacks on embassies in the DRC amidst protests against Rwandan-backed M23 rebels. The violence has led to police clashes with protesters, demanding international action against Rwanda. Germany has halted consultations with Rwanda until de-escalation occurs, as the DRC government highlights foreign military involvement in the conflict.
On January 28, 2025, the European Union condemned the recent assaults on foreign embassies in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). EU Foreign Affairs Chief Kaja Kallas’s spokesman emphasized the importance of safeguarding diplomatic missions, adhering to the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations. Additionally, the French Foreign Minister, Jean-Noel Barrot, expressed strong condemnation of the attack on the French embassy in Kinshasa, asserting the urgency of ensuring the safety of personnel and citizens amid the turmoil.
The embassies of Belgium, the Netherlands, Kenya, Rwanda, Uganda, and the United States have also faced attacks from protesters responding to escalating tensions due to the advance of Rwandan-backed M23 rebels into the DRC’s eastern region. Demonstrations resulted in police deploying tear gas against protestors who marched towards the embassies, causing looting and fires at various diplomatic sites.
The protests stem from demands for the international community to act against Rwanda for its alleged backing of the M23 rebels, who are advancing toward Goma. Timothee Tshishimbi, a protest leader, criticized the perceived inaction of the international community, urging it to compel Rwanda to cease its military involvement.
Germany’s development ministry announced the cancellation of planned government consultations with Rwanda and indicated a coordinated approach to future aid measures. They stated that normal diplomatic relations could not resume until the violence ceases and the M23 withdraws from the region.
Protesters contend that foreign nations might share culpability in the incursion, which the DRC government claims involves Rwandan troops. The M23 faction has been active in the region, with DRC’s security forces working to contain the insurgents who briefly occupied Goma in 2012, only to return in late 2021 with increased backing from Rwanda.
The Democratic Republic of Congo has been embroiled in ongoing conflict, particularly in its eastern regions, which are rich in minerals. The M23 rebel group has resurfaced, receiving alleged support from Rwanda, leading to heightened tensions and conflict. This situation has prompted widespread protests, notably against foreign diplomatic missions perceived as complicit or unresponsive to the local crisis. International relations are strained as the DRC seeks to address these issues.
The situation in the DRC continues to escalate as international embassies face attacks amid public outcry against foreign involvement in local conflicts. The EU and France have condemned these violent protests, calling for the protection of diplomatic missions. Meanwhile, the DRC’s government is urging the international community to take a stand against Rwanda’s alleged support for rebel forces. Diplomatic relations remain tense as development discussions are put on hold until the situation stabilizes.
Original Source: www.dw.com
