The United States has ordered the families of its diplomats in Burundi to evacuate due to escalating tensions from neighboring war-torn Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
The US Embassy in Burundi made the announcement on Saturday, citing increased risks linked to the volatile situation across the border.
In a statement, the embassy confirmed that it had authorized the departure of non-essential staff as well, ensuring the continuation of emergency consular services in the country.
The decision comes as the M23 rebel group, reportedly supported by Rwandan forces, has captured two provincial capitals in eastern DRC.
Despite military backing from Burundi’s forces, the group has swiftly overwhelmed the Congolese army in recent weeks, advancing toward Burundi’s borders.
The conflict has triggered a surge of refugees, with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees reporting 42,000 individuals fleeing from DRC to Burundi in just two weeks.
In response, Burundi has begun to withdraw some of its 10,000 soldiers stationed in DRC to support the Congolese forces, though the government has denied these reports.
On Friday, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio spoke with Kenyan President William Ruto, urging a ceasefire to alleviate the mounting crisis in the region.
As the situation continues to unfold, the United States has taken precautionary measures to protect its personnel while continuing diplomatic efforts.
