On January 28, 2025, the EU and France condemned attacks on foreign embassies in the DRC, including the French embassy in Kinshasa. The protests, driven by opposition to Rwanda-backed M23 rebels in Goma, prompted calls for international intervention. Germany canceled consultations with Rwanda over the ongoing conflict, signifying a serious shift in diplomatic relations amid escalating violence.
On January 28, 2025, the European Union condemned the attacks on foreign embassies in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), emphasizing the necessity for the protection of diplomatic missions as mandated by the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations. A representative from the EU’s foreign affairs chief, Kaja Kallas, articulated the need for safety concerning these embassies amidst escalating violence.
French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot voiced specific denunciation regarding the attack on the French embassy in Kinshasa, asserting, “These attacks are unacceptable. Everything is being done to ensure the safety of our personnel and our citizens.” Other embassies, including those of Belgium, the Netherlands, Kenya, Rwanda, Uganda, and the United States, also faced aggressive protests and attacks.
The protests are linked to the advance of Rwanda-backed M23 rebels in Goma, a crucial city in eastern DRC, prompting demonstrators to urge the international community to intervene against Rwanda’s alleged involvement. Timothee Tshishimbi, a protest leader, remarked, “We denounce the hypocrisy of the international community. They must tell Rwanda to stop this adventure.”
In response to the escalating situation, Germany’s development ministry has canceled planned consultations with Rwanda and is liaising with other donors regarding further measures. A statement from the ministry indicated that development discussions would only resume once Rwanda and the M23 rebels de-escalate and withdraw from their aggressive positions.
Protesters further accuse foreign nations of complicity in the unrest, which the DRC government claims involves Rwandan troops as well. The M23 rebels have been a significant presence, amongst over one hundred armed groups competing for control in the area rich in natural resources, and they briefly seized Goma in 2012 before being obliged to retreat under international pressure.
Currently, DRC’s security forces are undertaking efforts to curtail the insurgents’ advances as tensions continue to rise.
The Democratic Republic of Congo has been facing persistent unrest due to conflicts involving numerous armed groups, notably the M23 rebels, who are alleged to have support from Rwanda. Protests erupt in response to the geographical advances of these rebels, with public sentiment directed towards foreign intervention and accountability regarding regional involvement. Diplomatic missions have increasingly come under threat as tensions in the region escalate, prompting responses from international representatives.
The recent attacks on foreign embassies in the DRC highlight the precariousness of diplomatic relations amidst the ongoing conflict exacerbated by the M23 rebellion and allegations of Rwandan involvement. The international response, including condemnations and re-evaluations of diplomatic engagements, underscores the necessity for immediate attention to restoring security and stabilizing the situation in the DRC. Furthermore, the protests signify a growing frustration with perceived international inaction regarding regional aggressions involving foreign support.
Original Source: www.dw.com
