Rwanda criticizes the UK for perceived betrayal post-sanctions regarding its DRC activities. Canada and Germany also impose sanctions, halting aid and trade initiatives against Rwanda. Kigali counters by condemning Western politicization of aid and emphasizing its security concerns, as the M23 conflict raises regional instability issues.
Rwanda has criticized the UK, labeling it a “betrayal” following the recent implementation of British sanctions aimed at curtailing its involvement with the M23 in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Responding to the UK sanctions, both Canada and Germany have issued similar punitive measures due to Rwanda’s actions in the ongoing DRC conflict.
Canada announced sanctions that include halting new trade initiatives and export permits for controlled goods to Rwanda amid the M23’s offensive. Similarly, Germany is suspending its financial aid, emphasizing the need for Rwanda to withdraw its military support from M23 and recognizing the sovereignty of the DRC.
Germany, which contributes about 50 million euros annually to Rwanda for economic development projects, stated it would reassess existing cooperation and financial commitments due to Rwanda’s actions. They have also asserted their goal to engage Rwanda constructively while acknowledging their interactions with the DRC concerning the conflict.
In a response to the imposing sanctions, Rwandan officials denounced the politicization of Western aid. The Rwandan Ministry of Foreign Affairs criticized Germany for failing to uphold its commitment to an African-led solution, arguing the sanctions undermine peace efforts and exacerbate the situation.
Rwanda is also pressing the UK to fulfill its financial obligations related to a migrant agreement that was stalled by the previous UK administration. Rwandan government spokeswoman Yolande Makolo claims that the UK’s sanctions breach mutual trust, asserting that Rwanda has acted in defense of its national security.
The ongoing conflict, fueled by the M23’s occupation of resource-rich areas in eastern DRC, has provoked widespread international concern. The M23, supported by Rwanda, has faced minimal pushback from DRC forces, leading to large-scale displacements.
Kigali accuses Kinshasa of colluding with the FDLR, a group it argues threatens Tutsi populations, highlighting a complex web of ethnic-driven justifications on both sides. Observers note that this ongoing strife ultimately undermines regional stability and further impoverishes local communities.
The recent sanctions against Rwanda by the UK, Canada, and Germany stem from its involvement in the conflict in eastern DRC. These measures have sparked significant backlash from Kigali, which perceives them as a betrayal and politically motivated. As tensions escalate, the international community’s response underlines the importance of addressing the root causes of conflict in the region, highlighting the complex interplay of ethnicities and geopolitical interests impacting stability in eastern DRC.
Original Source: www.rfi.fr
