Rwanda Condemns UK and Western Sanctions Amid DRC Conflict Escalation

Rwanda criticizes the UK for perceived betrayal following sanctions imposed due to its alleged involvement in the DRC conflict. Canada and Germany also enacted sanctions, halting trade and aid. The situation highlights increasing diplomatic tensions as Rwanda calls out the politicization of international cooperation while the ongoing conflict causes widespread displacement.

Rwanda has expressed strong discontent with the United Kingdom following the imposition of sanctions related to its involvement with the M23 in the ongoing conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). This criticism came shortly after Canada and Germany announced similar sanctions against Rwanda. Kigali describes these measures as a “betrayal” by the UK, which has strained diplomatic relations between the nations.

In the wake of the UK sanctions, Canada implemented its own punitive actions, halting new trade initiatives and export permits of controlled goods and technologies to Rwanda. Additionally, Germany declared a suspension of aid to Rwanda, which typically amounts to 50 million euros annually for economic development projects, energy, and vaccine production. The German Cooperation Ministry emphasized the need for Rwandan armed forces to withdraw from the DRC.

Germany’s statement condemned the actions of the M23, marking a violation of DRC’s sovereignty, and stated that they would reevaluate cooperation. Germany has reiterated that while they acknowledge Rwandan security concerns, the support for M23 must cease. Berlin is in communication with the Congolese government concerning these issues.

The Rwandan Ministry of Foreign Affairs reacted sharply, asserting that Germany’s approach to development cooperation politicizes the situation and fails to recognize DRC’s numerous violations of peace. They labeled the sanctions from Europe as “shameful.” Kigali also seeks compensation from the UK regarding an abandoned migration agreement, accusing the British government of having violated trust and jeopardizing Rwanda’s national security.

On February 25, the UK had already suspended a majority of its financial aid to Rwanda. In light of these expanding sanctions, Ottawa has distanced itself from economic projects in Rwanda and scrutinized its participation in international events there as well.

The M23 offensive, which has garnered extensive international condemnation, has allowed the armed group to capture significant territories in the resource-rich eastern DRC, resulting in the displacement of thousands. Both nations involved justify their actions as a means of protecting ethnic populations; however, experts assert that the ongoing conflict devastates local economies and livelihoods.

The implementation of sanctions by the UK, Canada, and Germany against Rwanda has escalated tensions between these countries. Rwanda perceives this as a significant betrayal, particularly from the UK regarding a previous migration agreement. As the M23 conflict continues to draw international scrutiny, the regional implications for peace and stability remain profound, highlighting the need for diplomatic resolutions to the ongoing disputes.

Original Source: www.rfi.fr