On Tuesday, the US embassy in Kinshasa advised its citizens to leave the Democratic Republic of Congo following attacks on several diplomatic missions by protesters upset over the conflict in Goma.
"Due to an increase in violence throughout the city of Kinshasa, the US Embassy in Kinshasa advises US citizens to shelter-in-place and then safely depart while commercial options are available," a statement said. "The US Embassy in Kinshasa is closed to the public until further notice."
The statement warned that there might be roadblocks and demonstrations on the way to the airport, which could affect travel time and safety.
Moreover, all auxiliary UN staff have left the city of Goma due to the fighting between the Congolese army and rebels, said Stephane Dujarric, spokesperson for the United Nations Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres.
Dujarric added that the main staff and peacekeepers were forced to take shelter inside the UN bases.
On Tuesday, Guterres held phone conversations with the President of the DRC, Felix Tshisekedi, and the President of Rwanda, Paul Kagame. In his conversation with the latter, Guterres emphasized the need to protect the civilian population in the conflict zone, according to Dujarric.