EU and France Condemn Attacks on Embassies Amid Rising Tensions in DR Congo
The European Union and France have condemned the attacks on foreign embassies in the DRC, calling for adherence to diplomatic protections. The protests, linked to the advance of M23 rebels allegedly supported by Rwanda, have led to violence against embassies and a demand for international action. Germany has suspended cooperation with Rwanda, reflecting the broader implications of the conflict.
The European Union (EU) has condemned the recent attacks on foreign embassies in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), emphasizing the need for the protection of diplomatic missions as outlined in the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations. In a statement from Brussels, a spokesman for EU foreign affairs chief Kaja Kallas urged adherence to international norms regarding embassy security.
French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot condemned the assault on France’s embassy in Kinshasa, labeling the violence as “unacceptable” and assuring that measures are being implemented to safeguard French personnel and citizens. Over recent days, embassies of Belgium, the Netherlands, Kenya, Rwanda, Uganda, and the United States have also faced attacks by demonstrators as violence escalates in eastern DRC, prompting a mass exodus of citizens.
Police have responded to the violence by deploying tear gas to disperse protesters, who have vandalized and set fire to parts of the diplomatic buildings. The unrest is tied to the advance of Rwanda-backed M23 rebels in Goma, where demonstrators are calling for international intervention against Rwanda’s alleged involvement in the conflict.
Protester Timothee Tshishimbi criticized the international community for its perceived indifference toward the situation, stating, “We denounce the hypocrisy of the international community. They must tell Rwanda to stop this adventure.” Additionally, Germany has canceled planned government consultations with Rwanda and is reevaluating its development cooperation due to the ongoing hostilities.
The M23 rebels, who have made a resurgence in late 2021 with purported support from Rwanda, are among numerous armed groups competing for dominance in DRC’s mineral-rich eastern region. Despite past setbacks in 2012, the rebels have intensified their efforts, complicating the security landscape as DRC’s armed forces strive to counter their advance into Goma.
The current unrest in the Democratic Republic of Congo arises from the resurgence of M23 rebels, allegedly supported by Rwanda, and their advance toward the critical city of Goma. This situation has incited widespread protests demanding accountability from the international community. As violence escalates, embassies have come under attack, leading to international condemnation and renewed concerns regarding diplomatic protocols and safety.
The attacks on embassies in the Democratic Republic of Congo reflect the escalating violence associated with the M23 rebel group and international tensions over Rwanda’s involvement. The European Union and France have called for the protection of diplomatic missions, highlighting the critical need for security amid increasing chaos. Furthermore, the situation underscores the fragile relationship between the DRC and its neighboring countries during this period of conflict.
Original Source: www.dw.com
