Rwanda Denounces US Sanctions Over DR Congo Conflict As Unjustified

Rwanda condemned US sanctions against its Minister of State for Regional Integration, James Kabarebe, for alleged support of the M23 rebel group in DR Congo. The US linked these actions to ongoing violence and human rights abuses. Rwanda dismissed the sanctions as unjustified. DR Congo welcomed the sanctions and seeks further international measures against Rwanda, with regional leaders expressing concerns over broader conflict.

The Rwandan government condemned the recent US sanctions imposed on its Minister of State for Regional Integration, James Kabarebe, citing his alleged involvement in the ongoing conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo). The US Treasury Department announced the sanctions, also targeting M23 rebel spokesman Lawrence Kanyuka and two companies he manages in Britain and France, linking them to ongoing violence and human rights abuses in the region.

The US Treasury stated that these measures are in response to Rwanda’s backing of the M23 rebel group, which has been accused of seizing major cities in DR Congo, including Goma and Bukavu, causing severe humanitarian crises. Bradley Smith, the acting Under Secretary for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence, emphasized that these actions aim to hold accountable those facilitating destabilizing activities in the region.

In its official response, Rwanda’s foreign ministry rejected the sanctions, declaring them “unjustified and unfounded” and asserting that such punitive measures do not contribute to lasting security or peace. Rwanda maintains that its involvement is solely to protect its borders and to address threats emanating from DR Congo.

The DR Congo welcomed the US sanctions, expressing a desire for further actions against Rwanda to compel a military withdrawal. Government spokesman Patrick Muyaya indicated that a series of more robust sanctions would be appropriate to curb what he termed Rwanda’s criminal activities on Congolese soil.

UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy condemned Rwanda’s reported military actions as violations of the UN Charter that heighten the risk of broader regional conflict. Meanwhile, Brazil’s Foreign Minister criticized attacks on UN and regional peacekeeping forces in DR Congo. In contrast, China reiterated its support for African nations addressing their internal issues without external interference.

In summary, the US has imposed sanctions on Rwandan officials amid allegations of support for the M23 rebel group in DR Congo, a claim Rwanda vehemently denies. The sanctions have been welcomed by DR Congo, which is seeking additional international support for more stringent measures against Rwanda. The situation remains tense as regional leaders express concerns about potential escalations in conflict, while China advocates for non-interference in African affairs.

Original Source: www.bbc.com