Rwanda Accuses UK of Betrayal Amid Rising Sanctions Over DRC Involvement

Rwanda condemned UK sanctions, labeling them a “betrayal,” while Canada and Germany also imposed sanctions over the DRC conflict. Germany resumed financial aid, highlighting the need for Rwanda’s military withdrawal from DRC. Rwanda criticized these actions as politicizing aid. The ongoing M23 offensive raises concerns over human rights and security in Eastern DRC.

Rwanda has expressed strong discontent towards the United Kingdom, referring to recent British sanctions as a “betrayal,” following the UK’s condemnation of Rwanda’s involvement with the M23 group in the ongoing conflict in Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). These sentiments are echoed by Canada and Germany, both of which recently announced punitive measures against Rwanda for its role in this conflict.

Canada implemented new sanctions, which entail halting trade initiatives and suspending export permits for certain goods and technologies destined for Rwanda. Furthermore, Germany announced the suspension of its aid to Rwanda, amounting to €50 million annually, which supports various development projects.

The German Cooperation Ministry emphasized the need for Rwanda to withdraw its armed forces from the DRC and expressed concerns about the ongoing violence by the M23. Germany underscored that while security concerns of Rwanda are acknowledged, this should not overshadow the need to restore stability in the region.

In response, Rwanda’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has criticized Germany’s decision as politicizing developmental aid, arguing that such actions contradict Germany’s stated commitments to support African-led initiatives. The Rwandan government labeled the sanctions from European powers as “shameful” and called for Germany to maintain its financial commitments to avoid exacerbating tensions.

Amid these developments, Rwanda is also pressing the UK to fulfil obligations from a controversial migration agreement that was troubled by the change in government. Rwandan government spokeswoman Yolande Makolo stated that the UK had requested Rwanda to waive outstanding payments, which she described as a breach of trust due to the sanctions imposed by London.

The escalating conflict led by the M23, which has reportedly gained control over significant territories in Eastern DRC, has caused widespread displacement and humanitarian concerns. Both Rwanda and the DRC have framed their participation in the conflict as protective measures for ethnic populations, but experts warn that ongoing hostilities are detrimental to both economies and civil society.

In conclusion, Rwanda’s reaction to the imposition of sanctions from the UK, Canada, and Germany highlights the growing tension concerning its involvement in the DRC conflict. The criticisms from Kigali emphasize perceived betrayals and the negative implications of foreign sanctions on development cooperation. As the situation evolves, the need for dialogue and collaboration remains crucial for ensuring stability in the region and addressing the humanitarian crisis caused by the conflict.

Original Source: www.rfi.fr