Rwanda condemned U.S. sanctions against Minister James Kabarebe, citing them as unjustified amid ongoing conflict in the DRC. The sanctions target individuals linked to the M23 rebel group, which has intensified violence in eastern DRC. The DRC welcomes these measures, seeking further accountability to compel Rwanda’s withdrawal of support for the rebels.
The Rwandan government has expressed strong discontent regarding the recent sanctions imposed by the United States on its Minister of State for Regional Integration, James Kabarebe, due to his alleged involvement in the conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The U.S. Treasury attributed the sanctions to Kabarebe’s significant role in supporting the M23 rebel group, which has made considerable advances in the DRC.
In addition to Kabarebe, Lawrence Kanyuka, the spokesman for the M23, and two companies under his control in Britain and France were also sanctioned. The U.S. Treasury noted that both individuals are linked to violence and human rights abuses occurring in the DRC, underscoring its commitment to holding accountable those responsible for instigating destabilization in the region.
In response to the sanctions, Rwanda’s foreign ministry labeled them as “unjustified and unfounded,” asserting that such measures would not lead to resolutions regarding the conflict. They emphasized that Rwanda’s actions aim to safeguard its border and to terminate the politics of ethnic extremism contributing to regional instability.
The DRC welcomed the U.S. sanctions, expressing a desire for more robust measures aimed at compelling Rwanda to withdraw support for the M23 and cease its alleged criminal activities. Government spokesman Patrick Muyaya conveyed that these sanctions mark the beginning of a series of sanctions the DRC seeks from international bodies.
During discussions at a G20 foreign ministers’ meeting, UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy characterized Rwanda’s alleged military involvement as a serious violation of the UN Charter that could escalate into broader regional conflict. China reiterated its stance against external interference in African nations, advocating for resolutions to be achieved by the African people themselves.
The recent U.S. sanctions against Rwandan officials have sparked significant reactions, particularly from the Rwandan government, which views these actions as unjust. The situation in the DRC remains tense, with continued fighting by the M23 rebel group exacerbating humanitarian crises. As the international community observes the developments, calls for accountability and resolution persist amid concerns over regional stability.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
