Rwanda and Belgium Diplomatic Relations Severed Amid EU Sanctions

Rwanda and Belgium cut diplomatic ties amid EU sanctions targeting Rwandan military leaders as M23 rebels advance in the DRC. Belgium has aligned with DRC, leading to escalating tensions. The EU’s sanctions were agreed upon prior to peace talks in Angola, marking critical developments in this ongoing conflict.

On March 17, 2025, Rwanda and Belgium officially severed their diplomatic ties in response to escalating tensions stemming from Rwanda-backed M23 rebels’ incursion into the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The European Union (EU) has imposed sanctions against Rwandan military leaders and the M23 group’s members due to their actions in the conflict, which have led to significant bloodshed, with the DRC government reporting 7,000 fatalities and thousands displaced from their homes.

The EU’s sanctions were decided at a foreign affairs ministers’ meeting in Brussels and specifically target individuals within the Rwanda Defense Force and M23, as well as a refinery accused of illegally profiting from DRC’s natural resources. The announcement of these sanctions comes shortly before peace negotiations between the DRC and M23 rebels, scheduled to begin in Angola.

In a statement issued by Rwanda’s Foreign Affairs Ministry, the country declared the termination of its diplomatic relations with Belgium, demanding the withdrawal of Belgian diplomats within 48 hours. The ministry accused Belgium of siding with the DRC and manipulating public perception against Rwanda, deeming these actions as perpetuating neocolonialism.

Belgium responded by designating Rwandan diplomats as persona non grata and announcing the end of governmental cooperation agreements. Minister Maxime Prévot criticized Rwanda’s actions as disproportionate and indicative of the country’s unwillingness to engage in constructive dialogue despite the diplomatic disagreements.

The EU ministers denounced the presence of Rwandan forces in the DRC, labeling it a breach of the latter’s territorial integrity, and claimed the illegal extraction and trade of resources by these forces exacerbated the conflict. Furthermore, accusations have emerged against the EU for allegedly contributing to the conflict through past deals, including a critical minerals agreement with Rwanda, which critics believe facilitates the smuggling of conflict minerals from DRC.

Although the sanctions represent a significant initial action, an EU diplomat indicated that further measures may be necessary in the future as discussions continue regarding the EU’s critical raw materials policy.

The diplomatic severance between Rwanda and Belgium highlights a critical point in regional tensions involving the DRC and the actions of Rwanda-backed rebels. As the EU sanctions target key figures in the conflict, it reflects international concerns about the ongoing violence and resource exploitation in the DRC. Diplomatic relations remain strained, with both nations taking countermeasures in response to perceived threats and manipulations, which signals a potential escalation in diplomatic conflicts going forward.

Original Source: www.politico.eu