Rwanda has condemned recent sanctions imposed by the UK, Canada, and Germany due to its involvement with the M23 group in the DRC conflict. The sanctions involve halting trade initiatives and aid, with Rwanda asserting feelings of betrayal over these actions, particularly concerning a discontinued migration agreement with the UK. International condemnation continues over the M23’s territorial gains in the DRC.
Recent British sanctions against Rwanda, regarding its involvement with the M23 group in the conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), have prompted significant backlash from Kigali, which perceives the actions as a betrayal. Following Britain’s lead, both Canada and Germany have imposed sanctions in response to the escalating violence in the DRC. Canada has suspended new trade initiatives and export permits for various goods and technologies to Rwanda while Germany has halted its aid, amounting to 50 million euros annually, as part of its commitment to economic development and health projects.
The German Cooperation Ministry has stated that it will suspend new financial commitments and high-level meetings with Rwanda. Their official statement stresses the importance of halting Rwandan support for the M23 group and calls for the withdrawal of Rwandan armed forces from the DRC. The ministry emphasized that while German security concerns regarding Rwanda are acknowledged, they are simultaneously in discourse with the Congolese government regarding the ongoing conflict.
In response, the Rwandan Ministry of Foreign Affairs criticized the political nature of Germany’s sanctions, describing them as incorrect and detrimental. In a statement on social media, Rwanda accused Germany of contradicting its support for an African-led resolution to the DRC conflict and allowing the Congolese government to evade accountability for its own violations, which exacerbates tensions in the area. Rwanda has referred to the European sanctions as “shameful,” illustrating its discontent with the international response.
Furthermore, Rwanda has raised concerns about an outstanding payment owed to them by the United Kingdom under a controversial migration pact, which was abandoned by the new Labour government. Yolande Makolo, a spokesperson for the Rwandan government, stated that the UK authorities had requested Rwanda to overlook the payment, relying on a foundation of trust that has now been undermined by punitive measures against Rwanda’s national security. Last February, the UK had also announced a suspension of most of its financial aid to Rwanda.
As the M23 group, which has the backing of Rwanda, continues to gain ground in the resource-rich eastern DRC, the situation continues to provoke international condemnation. The group has taken control of vast territories, leading to widespread displacement among the local population. Both countries involved justify their military actions as efforts to protect ethnic groups within the region, although experts point out that ongoing violence ultimately harms economic stability and community well-being.
In summary, the recent imposition of sanctions by the UK, Canada, and Germany against Rwanda has resulted in significant diplomatic tensions. Rwanda’s government has expressed feelings of betrayal, particularly concerning the UK’s handling of a migration agreement and Germany’s suspension of aid. The international community continues to voice their condemnation of the violent conflict driven by the M23 group in the DRC, revealing the complexities and challenges surrounding both humanitarian and geopolitical interests in the region.
Original Source: www.rfi.fr
