
The U.S. State Department has ordered non-emergency staff to evacuate the Democratic Republic of Congo as violence escalates and anti-Western sentiment grows.
At a Glance
- U.S. orders non-emergency staff and families to leave DR Congo
- Rwandan-backed M23 fighters seize control of Goma, sparking protests
- Violent demonstrations target Western Embassies in Kinshasa
- Humanitarian crisis looms as fighting displaces half a million people
U.S. Withdraws Staff Amid Rising Tensions
The United States has taken decisive action in response to the deteriorating security situation in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The State Department has issued an order for the departure of non-emergency U.S. government employees and all eligible family members from the country. The move comes as violent protests erupt in the capital, Kinshasa, targeting Western diplomatic missions.
The U.S. Embassy in Kinshasa released a statement advising American citizens of the gravity of the situation. “Due to an increase in violence throughout the city of Kinshasa, the U.S. Embassy in Kinshasa advises U.S. citizens to shelter-in-place and then safely depart while commercial options are available,” the embassy said.
Protests Erupt as M23 Advances
The root cause of the unrest lies in the eastern part of the country, where Rwanda-backed M23 fighters have made significant advances. The group has seized control of most of Goma, a key city in eastern DRC, triggering a wave of anger against Western nations perceived as failing to intervene.
Protesters in Kinshasa have directed their fury at foreign Embassies, particularly those of the United States and France. Demonstrators accuse these nations of allowing Rwanda to support the M23 militia group. The situation escalated when protesters breached a new U.S. embassy building under construction, though the site was later secured with no injuries reported.
Humanitarian Crisis Unfolds
The conflict has had devastating consequences for civilians. The fighting has displaced half a million people, creating a dire humanitarian situation. Residents of Goma face severe shortages of essential supplies.
“There is hunger in Goma. We have to go get water from the lake and we have no medicine,” Kahindo Sifa, a local resident, said.
The international community has called for urgent action. The United Nations, United States, China, and European Union have demanded that Rwanda withdraw its forces. However, Rwanda denies direct military involvement, claiming its aim is to target the FDLR, a group linked to the 1994 genocide.
The crisis has strained diplomatic relations in the region. Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi did not attend talks with Rwandan President Paul Kagame, despite international pressure. The situation has led to travel warnings from other nations, with Belgium’s Brussels Airlines canceling flights to Kinshasa.