Rwanda has expressed strong disapproval of the recent sanctions imposed by the UK, labeling them as “regrettable.” This response comes after the UK government accused Rwanda of providing support to the M23 rebel group in the Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo.
The UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office has implemented several measures, which include the suspension of direct financial aid—except for assistance aimed at the most vulnerable Rwandans—curtailing high-level participation in government events, and halting defense cooperation.
In its official statement, Rwanda’s Foreign Ministry asserted that these sanctions “do not aid the Democratic Republic of Congo, nor do they foster a lasting political resolution to the ongoing conflict.” The ministry further highlighted the unreasonableness of expecting Rwanda to jeopardize its national security amidst the prevailing violence in the region.
These sanctions follow the recent economic actions taken by the U.S. against Rwanda’s Minister of State for Regional Integration, James Kabarebe, who has been accused of significantly contributing to Rwanda’s backing of the M23 rebels.
Since December, the M23 group has intensified its territorial gains in eastern Congo, capturing key cities such as Goma and Bukavu.
As the situation deteriorates, Congo’s Prime Minister Judith Suminwa Tuluka informed the UN Human Rights Council that over 7,000 individuals have lost their lives due to the violence this year alone.
