Kagame on Rwandan Troops in DRC: ‘I Don’t Know’
Rwandan President Paul Kagame stated uncertainty about the presence of Rwandan troops in the DRC during a CNN interview, amid allegations of support for the M23 rebel group. He acknowledged regional threats and insisted on Rwanda’s commitment to self-defense. His comments emphasized national sovereignty and the inability to rely on international support for security matters.
In an exclusive CNN interview, Rwandan President Paul Kagame expressed uncertainty regarding the presence of Rwandan troops in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), despite ongoing conflict involving the M23 armed group and Congolese forces resulting in significant casualties. The conflict has raised international concerns, leading to allegations that Rwanda supports the M23, which reportedly captured Goma last week. United Nations experts estimate that 3,000 to 4,000 Rwandan soldiers are involved in supporting the M23 rebels.
When questioned about Rwandan military involvement, Kagame stated, “I don’t know,” despite his role as commander-in-chief of the Rwandan Defense Force. He emphasized, however, his awareness of concerns in the DRC affecting Rwanda’s national security, asserting, “if you want to ask me, is there a problem in Congo that concerns Rwanda? … 100%.” Kagame alluded to the need for Rwanda to act in its own defense, referencing regional threats posed by groups such as the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR).
The President condemned comparisons made between his actions and those of Russian President Vladimir Putin in relation to Ukraine, acknowledging the existence of various narratives regarding his leadership. Kagame remarked, “There will be so many stories… I can’t stop people from saying whatever they want to say,” reinforcing his commitment to protect Rwandan sovereignty amidst ongoing conflict. He described the FDLR as an “existential threat” to Rwanda, alleging their integration with Congolese forces and suggesting complicity from other governments.
Kagame reiterated Rwanda’s resolve to safeguard its interests, stating that no assistance would come from external bodies, including the United Nations. He declared Rwanda will pursue any required measures to ensure its security, instructing the interviewer to interpret his statements as they may. The overall tone of the interview reflected a leader determined to navigate and survive the turbulent geopolitical landscape affecting his nation.
The current situation in the DRC has escalated following significant military activity from the M23 group, a rebel faction believed to have substantial backing from Rwanda. This conflict has drawn the attention of international observers, who suspect Rwanda’s involvement in actual military operations on Congolese territory. Historical tensions between Rwanda and the DRC have frequently been exacerbated by the presence of various armed groups, resulting in a cycle of violence and complex geopolitical dynamics. Kagame’s remarks also illuminate the broader implications of regional security, particularly concerning Rwandan perceptions of threats emanating from foreign armed groups. The FDLR’s long-standing insurgency poses a particular concern for Rwanda, with implications for its military posture and diplomatic relations within the Great Lakes region of Africa.
In conclusion, President Paul Kagame’s statements during the CNN interview underline Rwanda’s precarious security situation amid rising violence in the DRC. While he professed uncertainty about troop deployments, his resolve to protect Rwanda’s interests amid external threats remains unambiguous. The complexities of the region’s security dynamics raise critical questions about international involvement and the future of peace in the DRC. Kagame’s emphasis on self-defense reflects a longstanding narrative of national sovereignty, underscoring the delicate balance of power in the Great Lakes region, and sets a tone of defiance in the face of external scrutiny.
Original Source: edition.cnn.com
