Rwandan President Paul Kagame stated uncertainty about troop presence in the DRC amid escalating violence with M23 rebels. He emphasized Rwanda’s need to protect itself against perceived threats, particularly from the FDLR group, while downplaying comparisons to other regional conflicts. The situation raises questions about Rwanda’s military role in DRC amidst international scrutiny.
Rwandan President Paul Kagame stated in an interview with CNN that he is unsure whether Rwandan troops are present in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), where intense fighting has resulted in over 700 deaths recently. International observers believe Rwanda supports the M23 rebel group, which reportedly captured Goma, a key city in the region. UN experts have estimated that approximately 3,000 to 4,000 Rwandan soldiers are actively assisting M23 forces on the ground.
When asked whether Rwandan forces are operating in the DRC, Kagame expressed his uncertainty, despite being the commander-in-chief of Rwanda’s military. He acknowledged, however, that Rwanda is concerned about security threats emanating from the DRC, claiming, “There are many things I don’t know… but… if there is a problem in Congo that concerns Rwanda, we will protect ourselves.”
Kagame responded to comparisons made between his actions and those of Russian President Vladimir Putin, who supported separatists in Ukraine. He dismissed concerns about public perception, stating, “There will be so many stories,” and remarked, “I may be called anything – what can I do about it?” He emphasized the need for Rwanda to navigate challenges to ensure its survival.
Kagame identified the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR) as a significant threat to Rwandan security and alleged that they are integrated into the Congolese military, hinting at regional support for the group. He asserted that Rwanda must take necessary actions for self-defense: “Nobody, including the UN or the international community, is going to do it for us.” He reiterated this sentiment by stating that Rwanda will do “whatever it takes” to defend itself, indicating a strong commitment to national security.
The DRC has been facing ongoing conflicts, particularly in the eastern regions, with various armed groups vying for control. The M23 armed group has gained notoriety for its violence against the DRC government. Rwanda’s historical involvement in DRC conflicts complicates international perceptions and responses to these crises. The FDLR is a Rwandan armed group that poses a perceived threat to Rwanda, prompting Kagame to express strong concerns and assert that Rwanda will act unilaterally to secure its borders.
President Kagame’s statements reflect Rwanda’s precarious security landscape surrounding the DRC. His uncertainty about troop presence combined with a firm commitment to protecting Rwanda’s interests underscores the complexities of regional conflicts. The dialogue emphasizes the need for Rwanda to manage perceived threats to maintain stability while navigating international scrutiny regarding its military actions.
Original Source: www.kadn.com
