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Politics

Rwanda and Belgium Sever Diplomatic Relations Over DR Congo Conflict

10:37

Rwanda has officially severed diplomatic ties with Belgium, citing Belgium's active support of adversaries in the regional conflict involving the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). In a statement released on Monday, Rwanda's foreign ministry announced the immediate termination of relations, accusing Belgium of systematically targeting Rwanda through lies and manipulation in various international forums to fuel hostility. Rwanda further claimed that Belgium's actions aimed to destabilize both Rwanda and the broader region.

In response, Belgium condemned Rwanda's decision as "disproportionate" and expelled all Rwandan diplomats from the country. Belgium's Foreign Minister, Maxime Prevot, expressed regret over the decision, asserting that Rwanda's refusal to engage in dialogue reflected a lack of willingness to resolve differences peacefully.

This diplomatic rift coincides with ongoing peace talks in Angola aimed at resolving the tensions in eastern DRC, where the Rwanda-backed M23 rebel group has made significant territorial gains. However, the M23 group announced it would not attend the talks, accusing "certain international institutions" of undermining peace efforts, particularly referring to European Union sanctions on its members.

The conflict in eastern DRC escalated in January when M23 rebels, supported by Rwanda, seized territory in the region, which is rich in minerals. In response, the European Union imposed sanctions on several individuals, including Rwandan military commanders and leaders of the M23 group, in connection with the conflict. Among those sanctioned were Ruki Karusisi, a Rwandan special forces commander, and other senior figures in the Rwandan military.

A recent UN report suggested that Rwanda has significant control over the M23, with an estimated 4,000 Rwandan troops operating in eastern DRC.

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