Rwanda Rejects US Sanctions Over Ongoing Conflict in DR Congo
Rwanda condemned U.S. sanctions on its Minister of State James Kabarebe for alleged support to the M23 rebels in the DRC, claiming the sanctions are “unjustified.” The M23 continues to advance in eastern DRC, prompting humanitarian crises. The DRC government supports more sanctions against Rwanda, while Western leaders warn of escalating conflict. China opposes external interference in African issues.
The Rwandan government has denounced the recent sanctions imposed by the United States on its Minister of State for Regional Integration, James Kabarebe, for his alleged involvement in the ongoing conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The U.S. Treasury Department also sanctioned Lawrence Kanyuka, spokesperson for the M23 rebel group, and two companies he controls in the UK and France, citing their roles in supporting armed violence in the region.
In response to the sanctions, Rwanda’s foreign ministry stated that these measures would not contribute to resolving the conflict and labeled them as “unjustified and unfounded.” These sanctions arrive amid reports that the M23 group has captured major cities such as Goma and Bukavu, leading to a significant humanitarian crisis in the DRC. The ongoing violence has raised concerns from Western powers, who accuse Rwanda of providing military support to the M23, allegations that Rwanda has consistently refuted.
The U.S. Treasury specifically indicated that Kabarebe was integral to Rwanda’s backing of the M23, asserting that both Kabarebe and Kanyuka were connected to ongoing violence and human rights violations within the DRC. Bradley Smith, acting Under Secretary of the Treasury for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence, emphasized the U.S. commitment to accountability for officials enabling destabilizing activities in the region. Furthermore, the statement reiterated the United States’ dedication to fostering a peaceful resolution to the conflict.
Rwanda countered the U.S. actions by asserting that its primary objective is to secure its borders and eradicate ethnic extremism. The Rwandan government expressed that sanctions would not aid in achieving the long-term peace and stability required in the Great Lakes region. They maintain that Rwandans deserve to live in peace without fearing insecurities that emanate from the DRC.
The DRC government welcomed the U.S. sanctions, expressing a desire for additional measures to compel Rwanda to withdraw its troops from its territory. Government spokesman Patrick Muyaya indicated that this marks the initiation of further sanctions aimed at holding Rwanda accountable for its actions. UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy, addressing G20 officials, condemned the actions of Rwandan troops as a blatant violation of the UN Charter, warning of escalating regional tensions.
Additionally, during discussions in South Africa, Brazilian Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira condemned attacks against UN forces and regional peacekeepers in the DRC. In contrast, China reiterated its stance in favor of African self-determination and opposed any foreign interference in the continent’s internal matters.
In conclusion, the recent U.S. sanctions against Rwandan officials highlight the ongoing tensions surrounding the conflict in the DRC. Rwanda’s rejection of these sanctions underscores its position on regional security, while the DRC seeks further international support to address perceived threats from Rwanda. The situation remains critical, with potential implications for regional stability and international relations.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
