Rwanda condemned US sanctions on Minister James Kabarebe, linked to support for the M23 rebels in eastern DRC. The sanctions have sparked diplomatic tensions, with the DRC government welcoming them and seeking broader international action against Rwanda. The situation has intensified due to the humanitarian crisis and allegations of military support by Rwanda for the rebels.
The government of Rwanda has expressed its strong discontent regarding the recent sanctions imposed by the United States on its Minister of State for Regional Integration, James Kabarebe. The sanctions were triggered by Kabarebe’s alleged involvement in supporting the M23 rebel group in the ongoing violence in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Additionally, Lawrence Kanyuka, the spokesman for the M23, and two of his companies based in the UK and France were also sanctioned by the US Treasury Department.
In response to the US sanctions, Rwanda’s foreign ministry asserted that these measures would not contribute to resolving the conflict in the DRC. They characterized the sanctions as “unjustified and unfounded” while emphasizing Rwanda’s commitment to security and stability in the region. This turmoil persists as the M23 continues to make territorial gains, notably capturing significant cities in eastern DRC, which has triggered a humanitarian crisis affecting many families.
Western nations have accused Rwanda of providing military support to the M23 rebel group, claims that the Rwandan government has vehemently denied. The US Treasury highlighted the role of Kabarebe, stating he played a central part in enabling Rwanda’s support for the M23, which has been linked to violence and human rights violations in the region.
Bradley Smith, Acting Under Secretary of the Treasury for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence, noted that the sanctions aim to hold accountable those perpetuating instability through armed groups in the DRC. In contrast, Rwanda maintains that its intentions are focused solely on securing its borders against threats from the DRC and seeking an end to interethnic violence.
The DRC government welcomed the US sanctions and expressed a desire for stronger international measures against Rwanda to force the withdrawal of its troops. National spokesperson Patrick Muyaya indicated that the sanctions were a step toward a more comprehensive approach by the UN and other global partners to address Rwanda’s actions in their territory.
At a recent meeting of G20 foreign ministers, UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy condemned Rwanda’s alleged military involvement, describing it as a serious violation of the UN Charter. Meanwhile, Brazil’s Foreign Minister condemned the assaults on UN and peacekeeping forces in the DRC. China reaffirmed its stance against foreign interference in African matters, advocating for African solutions to African issues.
The US sanctions against Rwandan officials highlight ongoing tensions related to the conflict in eastern DRC, particularly concerning accusations of Rwandan support for the M23 rebel group. While Rwanda dismisses the sanctions as unhelpful and unfounded, the DRC government sees them as a necessary step towards ensuring stability and security in the region. The international community continues to monitor the situation closely, as calls for accountability and a peaceful resolution grow.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
