The killing of George Floyd in the USA has shocked the world. Mr Floyd, a handcuffed black man, died after a police officer knelt on his neck for over eight minutes. Days of rioting and clashes with police followed. Protests have spread across America. Mr Floyd's killing led the African Union Commission to take the unusual step of attacking what it called "murder" and the "continuing discriminatory practices against black citizens".

A news agency wrote: "It is rare for U.S. embassies abroad to weigh in on domestic U.S. issues. But in this case, the embassies were compelled to respond after…African leaders reacted to Floyd's death with anger." One ambassador wrote: "I am profoundly troubled by the tragic death.…The Justice Department is conducting a full criminal investigation as a top priority. Security forces around the world should be held accountable. No one is above the law."