Rwandan President Paul Kagame stated uncertainty regarding the presence of Rwandan troops in the DRC amidst ongoing conflict involving the M23 group, which has resulted in considerable casualties. He described the FDLR as a significant threat and asserted that Rwanda must protect itself without reliance on the international community. Kagame emphasized that Rwanda will take necessary actions to safeguard its interests.
In an exclusive interview with CNN, Rwandan President Paul Kagame expressed uncertainty regarding the presence of Rwandan troops in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), where intense fighting has recently erupted. The conflict between the M23 armed group and Congolese forces has reportedly led to the deaths of over 700 individuals and caused thousands of injuries. Despite his position as the commander-in-chief of the Rwandan Defence Force, President Kagame stated, “I don’t know” if troops are in the DRC.
Kagame acknowledged that there are significant issues in Congo that affect Rwanda’s security, affirming, “I’d say 100%” that Rwanda would take measures to protect itself. The international community largely suspects Rwanda’s support of the M23 rebels, especially following their alleged capture of Goma. UN expert assessments suggest that Rwandan troops may greatly outnumber the rebel group, with estimates of 3,000 to 4,000 engaged in the DRC.
During the interview, Kagame reacted to comparisons made between his actions and those of Russian President Vladimir Putin regarding military intervention. He commented that he cannot control public perception but must focus on ensuring Rwanda’s survival against perceived threats. He emphasized the necessity of taking protective measures without detailing the exact nature of those actions.
President Kagame described the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR) as an “existential threat” to Rwanda, alluding to their integration into the Congolese army and potential support from regional governments. He insisted that Rwanda must act decisively to safeguard its security, stating, “Nobody is going to do it for us.”
When pressed on whether he would send troops into the DRC, Kagame reiterated that Rwanda would do anything necessary for its protection, advising the interviewer to interpret his comments as they might. His statements coupled with the ongoing conflict reflect Rwanda’s complex challenges in safeguarding its national interests amidst regional instability.
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has been embroiled in conflict due to various armed groups, notably the M23, which has escalated tensions in the eastern region. Rwanda’s involvement is highly scrutinized, with numerous reports suggesting that Rwandan forces support the M23 fighters. This has led to significant international concern regarding the humanitarian impact of the conflict and the potential for further regional destabilization. President Kagame’s statements reflect Rwanda’s heightened focus on national security in response to external threats, particularly from groups like the FDLR.
President Kagame’s remarks highlight the precarious situation in eastern DRC, where fighting endangers thousands of lives and raises questions about Rwanda’s military role. His insistence on national security underscores the broader implications of regional conflict and Rwanda’s stance towards armed groups that pose a threat to its sovereignty. As the situation evolves, Rwanda’s decisions will be closely monitored by the international community for their impact on regional stability.
Original Source: edition.cnn.com
