Rwanda condemned UK sanctions over its involvement with the M23 in the DRC conflict. Canada and Germany followed suit with their own sanctions, halting trade initiatives and aid. Rwanda criticized these measures as a political betrayal and harmful to peace efforts. The conflict has led to significant territorial gains for M23, raising humanitarian concerns.
Rwanda expressed strong dissatisfaction following British sanctions imposed due to its support for the M23 group in the ongoing conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Kigali views the UK’s actions as a significant “betrayal”, coming just a week after the sanctions were announced. Canada and Germany have also introduced their own sanctions in response to the M23’s activities in the region.
In reaction to the recent conflict escalation, Canada has enacted punitive measures that include halting new trade initiatives and export permits for controlled goods to Rwanda. This decision aligns with the growing international backlash against Rwanda’s involvement in the DRC conflict.
Alongside Canada, Germany declared on Tuesday that it would cease new financial commitments and suspend aid to Rwanda, which typically amounts to €50 million annually. This aid supports projects in economic development, energy, climate initiatives, and vaccine production, underscoring the significant economic ties between the two nations.
The German Cooperation Ministry stated it condemns the M23’s offensive, labeling it a violation of DRC’s sovereignty while expressing a commitment to pressuring Rwanda to withdraw its forces from DRC. The ministry insists that Rwanda’s security concerns should also be acknowledged during negotiations.
Rwanda’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs criticized Germany’s decision as “politicisation” of development aid, claiming that it contradicts Germany’s stated support for African-led conflict resolution initiatives. Rwanda argues that the sanctions do not facilitate peace but exacerbate the situation by prolonging conflict.
Kigali has termed the sanctions from European nations as “shameful” and is pressing the UK to fulfill its obligations regarding a disputed deal on the resettlement of migrants from the UK to Rwanda. This agreement was halted by the UK’s Labour government, which is said to have undermined mutual trust.
On February 25, the UK had already suspended the majority of its financial aid to Rwanda. Following the announcement of Canada’s sanctions, Ottawa also declared a review of its participation in events organized in Rwanda, sending a message against the ongoing conflict.
The M23 group, allegedly supported by Rwanda, has claimed substantial territory in eastern DRC, resulting in the displacement of thousands and drawing condemnation from the international community. Rwanda justifies its involvement as protective of ethnic populations but is criticized for contributing to long-term economic and social devastation in the region.
The sanctions imposed by the UK, Canada, and Germany highlight the growing international concern regarding Rwanda’s involvement in the DRC conflict. Rwanda’s criticisms assert that these actions undermine African-led conflict resolution, while also highlighting issues related to trust and cooperation in international relations. The situation remains critical as the M23 group’s activities continue to disrupt peace and stability in the region, affecting thousands of lives.
Original Source: www.rfi.fr
