Rwanda and Belgium have cut diplomatic ties amid sanctions imposed by the EU against Rwandan military leaders linked to the M23 rebels in the DRC. Tensions escalated as M23 gained control of key DRC territories, resulting in significant casualties. The EU sanctions are a reaction to violations of international humanitarian law as both countries exchange retaliatory diplomatic actions.
On March 17, 2025, Rwanda and Belgium officially severed diplomatic relations amidst increasing tensions due to Rwanda’s support for M23 rebels in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The European Union has agreed to impose sanctions targeting key Rwandan military figures and the M23 organization, prompted by the rebels’ advancement into resource-rich areas of the DRC, including the cities of Goma and Bukavu. Reports indicate that around 7,000 individuals have lost their lives due to the conflict, prompting an urgent humanitarian response.
As the EU scheduled sanctions against Rwanda following a ministers meeting in Brussels, the international community is preparing for peace talks between the DRC government and M23 rebels set to take place in Angola. An EU diplomat emphasized that the sanctions reflect accountability for violations of international humanitarian law rather than anti-Rwanda sentiment. Conversely, Rwanda’s Foreign Affairs Ministry accused Belgium of orchestrating a hostile campaign against Rwanda, demanding the expulsion of Belgian diplomats within 48 hours.
Belgium’s Foreign Affairs Minister Maxime Prévot responded by declaring that the country’s diplomats would also be deemed persona non grata and that collaboration agreements would be withdrawn. He characterized Rwanda’s diplomatic actions as disproportionate and indicative of a reluctance to engage in constructive dialogue amid disagreements.
While EU ministers condemned the presence of Rwandan Defense Forces in the DRC, citing a breach of territorial integrity, there are claims that the EU has contributed to the ongoing conflict. Last year, the EU ended a crucial minerals deal with Rwanda that was alleged to have facilitated the smuggling of conflict minerals from eastern DRC. The EU’s sanctions are presented as a preliminary step, with a reevaluation of critical raw materials agreements ongoing, although future actions remain uncertain.
Prior to the current diplomatic crisis, Rwanda had suspended bilateral cooperation with Belgium, accusing it of attempting to hinder its access to development funding. Minister Prévot remarked on the situation, indicating that Belgium was reviewing its cooperation in light of Rwanda’s actions against DRC.
The severance of diplomatic ties between Rwanda and Belgium is a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict involving Rwandan-backed rebels in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The EU’s imposition of sanctions serves as a response to violations of humanitarian law, while both nations engage in a diplomatic standoff. The international community continues to monitor the situation closely, particularly with impending peace talks and the critical humanitarian impact on the affected populations.
Original Source: www.politico.eu
