Rwanda Cuts Ties with Belgium Amid DR Congo Dispute
Belgium retaliates as tensions escalate over Rwanda’s alleged support for M23 rebels
Rwanda has officially severed diplomatic ties with Belgium, accusing its former colonizer of undermining its sovereignty and pushing for international sanctions over the conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo.
As part of this decisive move, Rwandan authorities declared Belgian diplomats persona non grata and ordered their immediate departure. The decision follows a fiery speech by President Paul Kagame on Sunday, in which he accused Belgium of persistently working against Rwanda’s interests.
“Belgians go to Kinshasa, point a finger at Rwanda, and say they will impose sanctions on us and mobilize the world against Rwanda. They are shameless. Mobilizing the world against Rwanda, with our small size? They should leave us alone,” Kagame stated.
Belgium Reacts with Retaliatory Measures
In response, Belgium’s Foreign Minister, Maxime Prévot, called the move “disproportionate” and announced reciprocal actions, including the expulsion of Rwandan diplomats and the termination of governmental cooperation agreements.
Rising Tensions Over M23 Rebel Allegations
Rwanda’s diplomatic fallout with Belgium comes amid growing international scrutiny over its alleged support for the M23 rebel group, which has seized key territories in eastern Congo, including Goma and Bukavu. Belgium has been at the forefront of Western efforts to impose sanctions on Rwanda over its perceived role in the conflict.
Meanwhile, crucial peace talks between the Congolese government and the M23 rebels are set to begin Tuesday in Angola. However, it remains uncertain how Rwanda’s diplomatic rift with Belgium will impact these negotiations and broader regional stability.
