Rwanda and Belgium have severed diplomatic ties amid escalating tensions over Rwanda’s support for rebels in the DRC. The EU has imposed sanctions on Rwandan military leaders and the M23, coinciding with peace talks. Both nations retaliated against each other’s diplomats, reflecting a significant deterioration in relations due to ongoing violence in the region.
On March 17, 2025, Rwanda and Belgium officially severed diplomatic ties amid escalating tensions spurred by Rwanda’s support for the M23 rebel group in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). This follows the European Union’s imposition of sanctions targeting key Rwandan military figures and the M23, amid reports of significant violence resulting in 7,000 fatalities during ongoing conflicts in the region. The rebels have taken control of critical cities, including Goma and Bukavu, exacerbating a humanitarian crisis that has displaced thousands.
The EU sanctions, announced during a foreign affairs meeting in Brussels, specifically aim at those involved in the Rwandan Defense Force and the M23, as well as a refinery accused of illegal resource trafficking from the DRC. These sanctions coincided with impending peace talks scheduled in Angola between the DRC government and M23 representatives.
In response to Belgium’s support for the DRC, Rwanda’s Foreign Affairs Ministry condemned its actions, labeling them as systematic mobilization against Rwanda. They issued a demand for Belgian diplomats to vacate Rwanda within 48 hours, criticizing Belgium for perpetuating “neocolonial illusions.” Conversely, Belgian Foreign Affairs Minister Maxime Prévot announced similar countermeasures, declaring Rwandan diplomats as persona non grata. He regarded Rwanda’s actions as disproportionate and indicative of an unwillingness to engage in constructive dialogue.
Although EU ministers denounced the Rwandan military’s conduct in the DRC as a breach of the country’s sovereignty, the EU itself faces criticism for its previous dealings which may have inadvertently fueled the conflict. Critics noted that a critical minerals agreement struck last year could be facilitating the illegal export of resources termed “blood minerals” from eastern DRC. EU officials recognized that these sanctions represent just the initial steps, advocating for more comprehensive measures in response to Rwanda’s actions.
Prior to the cut in ties, Rwanda had already suspended a bilateral cooperation agreement with Belgium in February, accusing Belgium of attempting to hinder its development funding. Minister Prévot remarked that Belgium’s review of cooperation was underway due to Rwanda’s territorial violations in the DRC, indicating a shift in diplomatic relations predicated on the ongoing conflict.
In summary, the diplomatic split between Rwanda and Belgium arises from deepening conflict linked to the actions of Rwandan-backed rebels in the DRC. The European Union has instituted sanctions aimed at key figures in the Rwandan military and the M23, reflecting international concern over humanitarian violations. Both nations have responded with measures that signify a breakdown in their diplomatic relations, underscoring the complex interplay of regional stability, resource management, and international diplomacy.
Original Source: www.politico.eu