Rwanda and Belgium have cut diplomatic ties as tensions rise over Rwandan-backed rebels seizing territory in the DRC. The EU has sanctioned military leaders in response to violence that has claimed thousands of lives. This diplomatic rift follows Belgium’s support for DRC and Rwanda’s accusations of Belgian manipulation and neocolonial sentiment.
On March 17, 2025, Rwanda and Belgium officially severed diplomatic ties amidst escalating tensions related to Rwandan-backed rebel advances in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The European Union (EU) has concurrently adopted sanctions targeting key leaders within the Rwanda Defense Force and the M23 rebel group, both implicated in illegal resource trafficking from the DRC. This decision follows a rapidly deteriorating security situation in eastern DRC, with the government reporting 7,000 fatalities from the conflict.
The EU sanctions, formalized during a foreign affairs minister meeting in Brussels, come just before anticipated peace talks between DRC and M23 rebels in Angola. An EU diplomat emphasized that the sanctions are a necessary response to violations of international humanitarian law, countering claims that they constitute unfair criticism of Rwanda.
Rwanda’s Foreign Affairs Ministry responded by demanding that Belgian diplomats leave the country within 48 hours, accusing Belgium of fostering a biased anti-Rwanda sentiment and manipulating perceptions. In retaliation, Belgian Foreign Minister Maxime Prévot criticized Rwanda’s actions as disproportionate, asserting the need for constructive dialogue rather than severed relations.
Despite EU ministers condemning the violation of DRC’s territorial integrity by Rwandan forces, the EU has also received criticism for exacerbating the conflict through past agreements, including a critical minerals deal deemed to facilitate the smuggling of conflict resources. While the sanctions represent an initial step, discussions regarding potential further actions are ongoing within the EU, especially considering previous cooperation suspensions issued by Rwanda against Belgium.
The severance of diplomatic ties between Rwanda and Belgium marks a significant escalation in tensions related to the conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The EU’s targeted sanctions signal global condemnation of illegal activities linked to the ongoing violence. While initial sanctions have been enacted, the EU is urged to consider further actions, reflecting the complex interplay of international relations and humanitarian concerns in the region.
Original Source: www.politico.eu
