Kinshasa Residents Attack Embassies Over Alleged Support for M23 mouvement
In Kinshasa, the capital of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), angry residents attacked several embassies on January 27, 2025, accusing the countries of supporting the M23 armed group. The unrest followed the capture of Goma, the main city in North Kivu province, by M23 fighters.
Among the embassies targeted were those of Rwanda, the United States, Uganda, Kenya, and France. Protesters attempted to set the buildings on fire using burning tires.
France’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Jean-Noël Barrot, confirmed that the French Embassy in Kinshasa was set on fire but said the flames were extinguished.
“This morning, protesters attacked and set fire to the French Embassy in Kinshasa, but the fire was quickly put out. Such actions are unacceptable. Measures are being taken to protect our staff and citizens,” Barrot said.
While security forces tried to contain the situation and protect the embassies, reports from Reuters indicate they allowed protesters to reach the Kenyan Embassy.
Patrick Muyaya, the DRC government spokesperson, acknowledged the public’s right to express anger but strongly opposed attacks on diplomatic missions.
