Rwanda Rejects UK Sanctions Over DRC Conflict

Kigali Criticizes UK's "Punitive Measures" Over M23 Conflict

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M23 has seized large swaths of the mineral-rich eastern DRC, including the main cities of Goma and Bukavu

Rwanda has condemned the United Kingdom's sanctions imposed over the M23 rebel conflict
The UK's sanctions are contingent upon Rwanda making "significant progress"
Rwanda consistently denies providing support to the M23 rebels

Rwanda has condemned the United Kingdom’s sanctions imposed over the M23 rebel conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), arguing that such measures hinder the prospects for peace.

The Rwandan Ministry of Foreign Affairs released a statement on Tuesday, expressing regret over the UK’s “punitive measures,” which include pausing bilateral aid and imposing diplomatic sanctions. Rwanda believes these actions will not contribute to a sustainable political solution in eastern DRC.

The UK’s sanctions are contingent upon Rwanda making “significant progress” in ending hostilities and withdrawing its troops from Congolese territory, a number estimated by the UN to be several thousand.

Rwanda consistently denies providing support to the M23 rebels, claiming its forces are acting defensively against the Congolese army and hostile groups.

The M23 rebels have seized significant territory in eastern DRC, leading to the displacement of approximately half a million people since January.

The UK’s diplomatic sanctions include:

Ending high-level attendance at Rwandan government events.
Limiting trade promotion activities.
Coordinating with partners on potential new sanctions.
Suspending future defense training assistance.
Reviewing export licenses for the Rwandan Defence Force.
Pausing direct bilateral financial aid, excluding support for the most vulnerable.