Protesters in Kinshasa, Congo, attacked foreign embassies and a U.N. building amid rising anger over rebel violence backed by Rwanda. The demonstrations included burning tires and looting, particularly targeting the U.S., French, and Ugandan embassies. Tensions stem from frustrations over foreign allies’ inaction against militia attacks in the eastern city of Goma.
In Kinshasa, the capital of the Democratic Republic of Congo, hundreds of demonstrators attacked various foreign embassies and a United Nations building on Tuesday. The unrest was fueled by anger over a rebel offensive, reportedly supported by Rwanda, threatening to escalate into a regional crisis. Protesters burned tires and threw stones at the U.S. Embassy, causing damage to a construction site nearby, though no injuries were reported.
The French Embassy was not spared as protesters ignited a fire, with French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot criticizing the violence as “unacceptable.” Footage revealed protestors entering the embassy and stealing furniture, with anti-Macron messages left on the walls. Furthermore, the Ugandan Embassy suffered looting and arson, alongside assaults on the Belgian Embassy and a U.N. humanitarian office, described by officials as a scene of “total chaos.”
Rising tensions have emerged in Congo due to frustrations with foreign allies, particularly concerning their perceived inaction against the March 23 Movement (M23), a militia attacking the city of Goma. The M23 group is believed to have backing from Rwanda, leading to a chorus of blame directed at foreign governments for the escalating violence.
The Democratic Republic of Congo has a long history of conflict, particularly in its east, where various rebel groups have emerged. Neighboring Rwanda’s involvement in Congolese affairs has often been criticized, with allegations of support for militias like the M23. The international community, including the United States and France, faces scrutiny over their roles and effectiveness in mitigating such tensions. Recent attacks in Kinshasa reflect a growing frustration among Congolese citizens towards their foreign allies for failing to protect them against violence perpetuated by these militia groups in their own territory.
In summary, widespread protests erupted in Kinshasa as demonstrators attacked several foreign embassies, fueled by frustrations over increased rebel violence in eastern Congo. The unrest reflected broader discontent with foreign nations, particularly Rwanda, accused of supporting militia actions. This situation indicates a significant rise in anti-foreign sentiment, resulting in violent demonstrations that raise concerns about stability in the region.
Original Source: www.nytimes.com
