Rwanda condemns UK for sanctions, aid suspension

Rwanda President Paul Kagame (C) attends the extraordinary joint regional summit between the heads of state from the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and the East African Community (EAC) in Dar es Salaam on February 8, 2025. [AFP]

Rwanda has called out the United Kingdom for pausing bilateral aid and imposing sanctions over its alleged role in the conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

In a strongly worded statement Tuesday evening, Rwanda's Foreign Ministry said the UK's decision does little to help the DRC or contribute to a sustainable political solution.

"The punitive measures announced by the UK government today in response to the conflict in eastern DRC-where the UK has clearly chosen a side-are regrettable. It is unreasonable to expect Rwanda to compromise its national security and the safety of Rwandans," the ministry said.

Rwanda also accused the international community of failing to hold the DRC accountable, claiming it was allowing Kinshasa to commit "all manner of violations for reasons that are obvious to all."

Kigali said it would continue working with African-led mediation efforts as the crisis in the DRC escalates.

On Tuesday, February 25, the UK announced it would pause direct bilateral aid to Rwanda and impose additional diplomatic sanctions.

"Rwanda may have security concerns, but it is unacceptable to resolve these militarily. There can only be a political solution to this conflict. We encourage the DRC to engage with M23 as part of an inclusive dialogue," UK Foreign Secretary said.

The UK also warned that it may suspend future defense training assistance for Rwanda if no progress is made toward easing tensions.

Last week, Rwanda suspended its development cooperation with Belgium, citing political differences. Kigali reiterated that it would not be pressured into compromising its national security.

The European Parliament also passed a resolution last week calling on Rwanda to withdraw its troops from the DRC and cut ties with the M23 rebel group.