Protesters attack foreign embassies in Kinshasa over M23 rebel offensive

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Luanda, Angola – Protesters in Kinshasa, the capital of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), attacked the embassies of France, Belgium, Rwanda, Uganda, Kenya, and the United States on Tuesday, denouncing international inaction over the ongoing M23 rebel offensive in eastern DRC.

AfricaHeadline Reports Team
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Smoke was seen rising from the French embassy after a fire broke out, while demonstrators clashed with riot police, who used tear gas to disperse the crowds. Kenya’s foreign minister condemned the attacks as a violation of international law, while DRC officials urged peaceful demonstrations.

The unrest comes as the M23 rebels claim to have taken control of Goma, the largest city in North Kivu province, intensifying the humanitarian crisis in the region.

Reports indicate that at least 17 UN peacekeepers have been killed in the recent fighting, including three South Africans in an attack on Goma’s airport. The rebels, accused by the DRC and the UN of receiving support from Rwanda, continue to battle for control of key locations, with hospitals overwhelmed by casualties. Rwanda denies involvement in the conflict.

UN Secretary-General António Guterres has spoken with the presidents of DRC and Rwanda, calling for de-escalation, while the UN Security Council is set to meet to address the worsening situation.

Analysts note that while protests in Kinshasa reflect public anger over foreign involvement, a military solution alone is unlikely to resolve the long-standing crisis. UN officials stress that diplomatic engagement remains crucial in addressing the underlying causes of the violence.