Luxembourg has delayed EU sanctions against Rwanda amid rising tensions following the M23 rebels’ capture of Goma. This decision has led to suspended defense consultations with Kigali and has drawn criticism for being too cautious. Calls for stronger action and transparency from Rwanda are mounting as conflicts in the DRC escalate, affecting regional stability and human rights.
Luxembourg has surprised fellow EU members by blocking sanctions against Rwanda, which has affected the bloc’s defense consultations with Kigali. As tensions escalate following the M23 rebels’ seizure of Goma, the EU looks to review its stance, with calls for Rwanda to withdraw its military presence from the DRC. Kaja Kallas, the EU’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs, described the situation in the DRC as grave, urging all nations to comply with the UN charter regarding territorial integrity.
The proposed sanctions, which Luxembourg vetoed, would have targeted nine individuals and an entity linked to Rwanda’s involvement in ongoing conflicts in the eastern DRC, freezing funds intended for the Rwandan military. Luxembourg’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Xavier Bettel, defended the delay, citing upcoming negotiations among African foreign ministers as a reason to hold off on swift sanctions while still supporting increased pressure on Rwanda.
Skepticism remains about Luxembourg’s motives, especially given its past agreements with Rwanda to foster the development of a financial center in Kigali. Critics argue that EU measures are insufficient, emphasizing the lack of proactive strategies to implement previous agreements that necessitated transparency from Rwanda. This sentiment was echoed by Erik Kennes, who criticized the gradual approach to sanctions as inadequate and delayed.
In Brussels, a demonstration by the Free Congo collective called for immediate sanctions on Rwanda due to alleged human rights violations occurring as a result of regional conflicts. Protest leaders voiced their frustrations over the lack of action taken against Rwanda regarding the exploitation of mineral resources. Recent UN resolutions condemned Rwandan support for armed groups in the DRC, stressing the dire humanitarian impact of continuing violence in the region, which has resulted in significant casualties and displacement of civilians.
Luxembourg’s decision to block EU sanctions against Rwanda has caused controversy amid rising tensions in the DRC, particularly due to accusations of Rwandan military involvement with rebel groups. The EU is urged to take a stronger stance and reassess its agreements with Rwanda, particularly as conflicts continue to wreak havoc in eastern Congo. The push for sanctions reflects broader concerns over regional stability and human rights abuses.
Original Source: www.euronews.com
