Rwanda and Belgium Cut Diplomatic Ties Amid EU Sanctions Over DRC Conflict
Belgium and Rwanda have cut diplomatic ties, with rising tensions due to Rwandan-backed rebels in the DRC. The EU imposed sanctions against Rwandan military leaders amid allegations of illegal resource trafficking. Belgium’s Minister criticized Rwanda’s actions as disproportionate. The situation is complicated by EU’s prior agreements that may have exacerbated the conflict, making future measures uncertain.
On March 17, 2025, Rwanda and Belgium severed diplomatic relations amidst escalating tensions influenced by the actions of Rwanda-backed M23 rebels in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). These rebels have advanced into eastern DRC, consequently capturing strategic cities such as Goma and Bukavu, leading to significant humanitarian crises as approximately 7,000 individuals have reportedly been killed according to the DRC government.
As part of this diplomatic rift, the European Union (EU) implemented sanctions aimed at high-ranking officials within the Rwanda Defense Force and the M23 movement, as well as targeting a refinery implicated in the unlawful trade of natural resources originating from eastern DRC. This decision by EU foreign ministers aligns with imminent peace negotiations between the DRC and M23 rebels set to commence in Angola.
An EU diplomat clarified that the sanctions were a response to violations of international humanitarian law, asserting, “This is not a ‘Rwanda-bashing’ exercise… but a listing in reaction to those violating international [humanitarian] law.” In conjunction with the EU’s actions, Rwanda’s Foreign Affairs Ministry demanded the expulsion of Belgian diplomats from its territory within 48 hours, accusing Belgium of fostering hostility against Rwanda through manipulation and falsehoods.
Belgium’s Foreign Affairs Minister Maxime Prévot countered Rwanda’s assertion, labeling the severing of ties as disproportionate and a refusal to engage in constructive dialogue. He announced plans to declare Rwandan diplomats persona non grata while denouncing collaborative agreements between the two nations.
Moreover, while EU officials condemned the Rwanda Defense Forces’ involvement in DRC as a transgression of sovereignty, they have also faced accusations of inadvertently exacerbating the conflict through prior agreements, such as a critical minerals deal with Rwanda that critics argue facilitated the illicit extraction of resources.
In light of the ongoing conflict, the EU sanctions represent an initial action, with discussions underway regarding potential further measures, although it remains uncertain if the EU Commission will pursue additional sanctions against Rwanda or modify its critical minerals arrangements. Previously, Rwanda had already halted bilateral cooperation with Belgium, pointing to perceived attempts by Belgium to curtail its development funding access. Praevot indicated that Belgium was reviewing various cooperation metrics in response to Rwanda’s actions against the DRC.
In summary, the diplomatic ties between Rwanda and Belgium have been severed due to escalating tensions surrounding the M23 rebels’ activities in the DRC and Belgium’s support for the DRC. The EU’s sanctions against Rwanda reflect international concerns over violations of humanitarian law. With impending peace negotiations, the situation remains complex, necessitating careful monitoring of diplomatic efforts and the potential for further sanctions to address the ongoing conflict.
Original Source: www.politico.eu
