Rwanda has reacted strongly to sanctions imposed by the UK, Canada, and Germany regarding its involvement with the M23 in the DRC. The Rwandan government perceives these actions as a betrayal and expressed discontent over Germany’s decision to suspend aid, which they categorize as politicizing development cooperation. Rwanda is also pursuing outstanding payments related to a halted migration agreement with the UK amid growing regional tensions.
In light of recent sanctions from the United Kingdom for Rwanda’s involvement in the M23 conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), the Rwandan government has expressed feelings of betrayal. Following the UK’s actions, Canada and Germany have also imposed their sanctions due to Rwanda’s alleged support for the M23 group amid escalating violence in the DRC region.
Canada’s sanctions were announced shortly after the UK measures, which included the suspension of trade initiatives and export permits to Rwanda. In parallel, Germany has decided to suspend financial aid and high-level engagements with Kigali while reviewing existing cooperative agreements, addressing the territorial concerns raised by the M23 offensive.
Germany’s commitments to Rwanda include an annual aid package of 50 million euros. The German government explicitly condemned the M23’s actions and emphasized the need for Rwandan troop withdrawal from the DRC, while also acknowledging Rwanda’s security concerns.
The Rwandan Foreign Ministry criticized Germany’s approach as “wrong and counterproductive,” arguing that it undermined the support for African-led initiatives and prolonged conflict instead of resolving issues. Kigali expressed its dissatisfaction with the European sanctions, labeling them as “shameful.”
Furthermore, Rwanda is requesting the United Kingdom to settle the outstanding balance related to the controversial migration agreement, which had been abandoned. Rwandan officials feel that the UK’s sanctions have betrayed the trust established between the two nations by undermining Rwanda’s national security.
Amidst these developments, some foreign sanctions aim to address ongoing violence and instability in the DRC. The M23 group, reportedly supported by Rwanda, has gained significant control over eastern DRC, leading to humanitarian crises and displacements while igniting fears of further regional destabilization.
The sanctions imposed by Canada, Germany, and the UK against Rwanda highlight a significant geopolitical tension stemming from the ongoing conflict in the DRC. Rwanda’s response indicates a feeling of betrayal by allies and raises concerns regarding regional security and cooperation. The situation continues to evolve as the international community seeks to address the humanitarian crises exacerbated by the conflict, alongside Rwanda’s assertions of national security.
Original Source: www.rfi.fr
