Rwanda has expressed betrayal over UK sanctions related to its involvement in the DRC conflict, further exacerbated by accompanying measures from Canada and Germany. These sanctions encompass trade suspensions and the halt of financial aid, which Rwanda criticizes as detrimental and counterproductive. The M23 group’s advance in DRC remains a focal point of international condemnation and concern.
In response to British sanctions targeting Rwanda for its involvement in the DRC conflict, Rwanda has expressed feelings of betrayal. Following the UK’s punitive measures, Canada and Germany have implemented their own sanctions, particularly due to the actions of the M23 army group in eastern DRC. The sanctions instituted by Canada involve the suspension of new trade initiatives and export permits for controlled goods to Rwanda.
Germany has similarly announced a suspension of aid to Rwanda, halting new financial commitments and high-level meetings intended to address cooperation. The German Ministry of Cooperation condemned the M23’s offensive as a violation of DRC’s territorial integrity and sovereignty, while calling for Rwanda to withdraw its forces from the conflict.
The Rwandan Ministry of Foreign Affairs criticized Germany’s actions as counterproductive, asserting that it undermines claims of supporting an African-led solution to the conflict. Kigali labeled the sanctions from both countries as shameful, arguing that they prolong the conflict instead of addressing the root causes.
Additionally, Rwanda has demanded that the UK fulfill the remaining obligations of a controversial immigration agreement that had been postponed due to a change in the British government. Rwanda’s government indicated that this deal was based on trust and claims that the UK has violated this understanding with its sanctions.
On February 25, the UK had also suspended much of its financial aid to Rwanda. The M23 group, which is backed by Rwanda, has taken control of significant areas in DRC, leading to widespread accusations and fears of escalating conflict as thousands are displaced from their homes.
Both Rwanda and DRC blame each other for the current turmoil, framing their involvement in the conflict as protectors of ethnic populations. However, analysts warn that the ongoing violence devastating economies and local lives in the region.
The situation illustrates escalating tensions between Rwanda and several Western nations, particularly the UK, Canada, and Germany, over Rwanda’s role in the DRC conflict. The sanctions imposed by these countries aim to address the actions of the M23 group but are viewed by Rwanda as unjust betrayals that jeopardize its national interests. The complexities of international aid and regional security continue to unravel, inviting scrutiny on how these interventions affect communities caught in prolonged conflicts.
Original Source: www.rfi.fr
