Rwanda and Belgium cut diplomatic relations following EU sanctions on Rwandan military leaders amid escalating conflict in the DRC. M23 rebels are gaining ground, displacing thousands, while both nations exchange accusations. EU sanctions target individuals involved in illegal resource trafficking, and further action may be considered as the situation unfolds.
On March 17, 2025, Rwanda and Belgium severed diplomatic ties following the European Union’s (EU) imposition of sanctions targeting Rwandan military leaders and associates of the Rwandan-backed M23 rebel group. The break in diplomatic relations comes as M23 forces have taken control of significant areas in the resource-rich eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), displacing thousands of residents and escalating violence that has led to approximately 7,000 deaths, according to the DRC government.
The EU sanctions were established during a foreign affairs ministers meeting in Brussels and aim to hold accountable those within the Rwandan Defense Force and M23 responsible for violations of international humanitarian law. The sanctions were announced just prior to upcoming peace talks in Angola between the DRC and M23 rebels, scheduled to begin Tuesday.
Rwanda’s Foreign Affairs Ministry accused Belgium of fostering a hostile environment against Rwanda and demanded that Belgian diplomats leave the country within 48 hours. The ministry described Belgium’s actions as neocolonial, alleging that Belgium is manipulating perceptions to create unjust animosity toward Rwanda.
Belgium responded by declaring Rwandan diplomats persona non grata, with Foreign Affairs Minister Maxime Prévot criticizing Rwanda’s decision as disproportionate and an unwillingness to engage in dialogue. Meanwhile, EU ministers condemned the Rwandan presence in DRC as a breach of its territorial integrity and focused on the illegal extraction of resources from the region, despite being criticized for previously establishing a minerals deal with Rwanda that allegedly masked smuggling activities.
The EU sanctions represent an initial measure against Rwanda, with some officials suggesting that further action may be necessary. This comes after Rwanda suspended cooperation with Belgium in February, asserting that Belgium aimed to undermine its funding access. Prévot remarked that Belgium was preparing to review its cooperation in light of Rwanda’s actions in the DRC.
Rwanda and Belgium’s diplomatic fallout highlights escalating tensions amid conflict in the DRC, driven by the actions of Rwandan-backed rebels seizing control of strategic regions. The EU has responded with sanctions against Rwandan officials as part of an effort to address violations of humanitarian law. Both nations are navigating a complex relationship marked by accusations and retaliatory measures, as the situation in the DRC continues to evolve.
Original Source: www.politico.eu
