Rwanda has condemned the UK for perceived betrayal following sanctions related to its involvement in the DRC conflict, joined by Canada and Germany. Sanctions include halting trade initiatives and aid, while Kigali sharply criticizes these actions as damaging to trust and counterproductive to resolving the conflict. The M23’s territorial advances continue to pose significant humanitarian challenges in the region.
Rwanda is expressing strong discontent over the recent sanctions imposed by the United Kingdom due to its involvement in the ongoing conflict with the M23 in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The Rwandan government views these measures as a significant betrayal, particularly as they were announced just after similar sanctions were implemented by Canada and Germany, reflecting growing international condemnation of its actions in the region.
Following the UK’s sanctions, Canada announced on a Monday that it would cease new trade initiatives and halt export permits for controlled goods and technologies destined for Kigali. Likewise, Germany’s Cooperation Ministry declared the suspension of new financial commitments and high-level meetings with Rwanda, citing the offensive actions of the M23 group as violations of the DRC’s sovereignty.
Germany, which currently provides Rwanda with €50 million annually for various development projects, emphasized its expectations for the withdrawal of Rwandan forces from the DRC and an end to support for the M23. The Rwandan government responded, labeling the German approach as “wrong and counterproductive,” suggesting that it undermines genuine efforts to resolve the conflict in eastern DRC.
Amid these developments, Kigali has also called upon London regarding the unresolved final payment linked to a controversial migration agreement. Rwandan government officials have described the UK’s actions as a betrayal of trust, claiming they were previously assured that the final payment would be waived, contingent on mutual trust between the nations.
As of February 25, the UK had also limited its financial aid to Rwanda, signaling a broader trend of international scrutiny regarding Kigali’s role in the DRC conflict. The M23, backed by Rwanda, has successfully captured extensive territories in the mineral-rich eastern DRC, leading to widespread displacement and humanitarian concerns, while both governments insist their involvements stem from ethnic protection justifications, despite ongoing devastation to local economies and livelihoods.
In summary, Rwanda perceives the recent sanctions from the UK, Canada, and Germany as unjust and a breach of trust. The situation is exacerbated by the ongoing violence in eastern DRC, as the M23 group continues to dominate key areas, displacing thousands. International reactions highlight a significant shift in diplomatic relations, as calls for an end to armed support for M23 and commitment to cross-border stability intensify. Overall, these developments reflect a complex interplay of regional security, humanitarian concerns, and the implications of foreign aid and cooperation.
Original Source: www.rfi.fr
