Rwandan President Paul Kagame expressed uncertainty about the presence of Rwandan troops in the DRC during a CNN interview. Despite international suspicions about Rwanda’s involvement with the M23 rebels, he emphasized the need for Rwanda to protect itself from perceived threats, particularly from the FDLR group. Kagame’s comments reflect the ongoing complexities of regional security dynamics.
In an exclusive interview with CNN, Rwandan President Paul Kagame stated he is uncertain about the presence of Rwandan troops in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), where recent clashes between the M23 armed group and Congolese soldiers have resulted in over 700 fatalities and thousands of injuries. Despite international suspicions of Rwandan support for the M23 rebels, Kagame refrained from confirming any troop deployment.
Kagame acknowledged the existence of pressing issues between Rwanda and the DRC, asserting that Rwanda will take measures to safeguard its security. He emphasized the necessity for Rwanda to protect itself amidst threats, notably referring to the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR) as an existential danger, which he claimed is integrated into the Congolese military.
When questioned about comparisons to Russian President Vladimir Putin due to alleged support for separatists, Kagame stated that such perceptions are beyond his control. He conveyed that while he cannot dictate public opinion, Rwanda must prioritize its survival. Kagame firmly reiterated that his government will pursue any means necessary to ensure national safety without reliance on external forces, including the United Nations.
The Democratic Republic of Congo is currently experiencing a resurgence of conflict, particularly in the eastern region, where various armed groups, including the M23 and FDLR, operate. Rwanda’s involvement is under scrutiny, as reports suggest that Rwandan military forces may be supporting the M23. This situation is complicated by regional dynamics and historical tensions between Rwanda and DRC, making Kagame’s statements critical to understanding the ongoing crisis.
In summary, President Kagame’s interview revealed his uncertainty regarding Rwandan troop presence in the DRC amidst conflict involving the M23 group. He emphasized that Rwanda will act decisively to protect its interests, highlighting a pervasive existential threat posed by armed groups in the region. Kagame’s statements underscore the complex interplay of security and perception in the volatile context of East African geopolitics.
Original Source: www.cnn.com
