Rwanda condemned U.S. sanctions on its minister, linked to violence in the DRC. Kabarebe and M23 spokesperson Kanyuka were sanctioned for alleged support of rebel activities. The sanctions prompted Rwanda to label them unjustified, while the DRC government welcomed the measures, seeking further action against Rwanda’s military involvement in the conflict.
Rwanda has condemned the recent United States sanctions imposed on its Minister of State for Regional Integration, James Kabarebe, due to his alleged involvement in the ongoing violence in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The U.S. Treasury Department announced the sanctions, stating that Kabarebe has played a significant role in Rwanda’s support for the M23 rebel group, which has been implicated in human rights violations.
In addition to Kabarebe, Lawrence Kanyuka, spokesperson for the M23, and two of his companies based in Britain and France were also sanctioned. Following the announcement, a spokesperson for the U.K. government indicated that there would be repercussions for Rwanda regarding its purported actions in the DRC.
Rwanda’s foreign ministry strongly criticized the U.S. sanctions, labeling them “unjustified and unfounded.” The ministry further expressed that such measures would not bring about any resolution in the DRC conflict. Meanwhile, the M23 continues its military campaign after recently capturing significant cities, including Goma and Bukavu, exacerbating a humanitarian crisis in the region.
Western nations have accused Rwanda of supplying arms and support to the M23, allegations that the Rwandan government categorically denies. The U.S. Treasury emphasized that Kabarebe’s sanctions are intended to hold accountable individuals involved in supporting destabilizing activities in eastern DRC.
Rwanda repudiated the sanctions, stating its primary goal is to secure its borders and eliminate ethnic extremism threats. The Rwandan government insists that punitive measures will not lead to lasting security or stability in the Great Lakes region. Meanwhile, the DRC government welcomed the sanctions, calling for intensified international actions against Rwanda to halt its alleged aggressive actions.
During discussions concerning the conflict, the U.K. and Brazilian officials raised concerns regarding the involvement of Rwandan troops, emphasizing the potential for regional conflict escalation. In contrast, China stated its support for African nations to resolve their issues independently, opposing any external interference in African affairs.
In summary, the U.S. sanctions targeting Rwandan officials highlight the ongoing tensions related to the DRC conflict. The Rwandan government rejects these sanctions, asserting they are unwarranted and counterproductive to achieving peace in the region. The humanitarian impact of the violence, compounded by accusations of foreign military involvement, necessitates a coordinated international response to stabilize the situation in the DRC.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
