The United States has issued a fresh security alert for its citizens in Kinshasa, the capital of the Democratic Republic of Congo, urging immediate departure due to escalating security threats.
In a statement released on February 3, the US Embassy in Kinshasa announced a further reduction of its personnel and warned that it would suspend visa interviews and routine services for American citizens.
“The Embassy advises US citizens in DR Congo to depart immediately via commercial means,” the alert stated, highlighting the deteriorating security situation in the city.
The advisory instructed U.S. nationals to ensure their travel documents are in order and keep essential items packed for an expedited evacuation.
The US government noted that commercial flights from N’Djili International Airport remain available, and border crossings are open for transit.
This alert follows a Level 4 travel advisory—”Do Not Travel”—issued by the US Department of State last week, citing severe risks posed by armed conflict, violent crime, civil unrest, and potential terrorist threats.
The DR Congo now joins other high-risk nations such as Haiti, Ukraine, and Venezuela under the strictest travel warning.
The US Embassy’s latest warning comes amid increasing violence in Kinshasa and other parts of DR Congo. Political instability has sparked violent demonstrations in the capital, with protestors recently targeting foreign embassies, including Uganda’s, setting them ablaze.
The unrest is largely driven by accusations that Rwanda is backing the M23 rebel group, which recently captured Goma, the largest city in eastern DR Congo.
Rwanda has denied any involvement, but tensions between Kigali and Kinshasa continue to escalate.
A diplomatic row erupted last week when Rwandan President Paul Kagame and South African President Cyril Ramaphosa exchanged accusations over Rwanda’s alleged military role in the conflict.
Meanwhile, Angola has withdrawn its ceasefire observers from Goma, citing worsening security conditions. The United Nations has also evacuated non-essential staff and their families.
Urgent Actions Advised
The US Embassy has urged its citizens to take precautionary measures, including:
- Reviewing personal security plans and keeping a low profile.
- Stocking essential supplies in case of extended confinement.
- Avoiding demonstrations and large gatherings.
- Making use of available commercial transportation to leave the area.
- Having an emergency action plan that does not rely on U.S. government assistance.
With violence persisting and diplomatic efforts struggling to contain the crisis, the path to stability in the DR Congo remains uncertain.
The United Nations and regional leaders continue to call for de-escalation, but the rapid deterioration of security suggests that further turmoil is imminent.