Rwanda Cuts Diplomatic Ties with Belgium Amid Rising Tensions Over DR Congo Conflict
Rwanda has officially severed diplomatic relations with Belgium, citing continued interference by the European nation. This in line with the ongoing conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
Belgium’s Role in the Conflict
Brussels has been at the forefront of advocating for European sanctions against Rwanda. Accusing it of supporting the M23 rebel group. Rwanda, however, has consistently denied any involvement despite assertions from the United Nations and the United States.
The Rwandan government has ordered Belgian diplomats to leave the country within 48 hours, escalating tensions between the two nations. Belgium, a former colonial power in Rwanda, has called the move “disproportionate” and vowed to respond.
Rwanda Accuses Belgium of Neo-Colonialism
In a strongly worded statement on Monday, Kigali accused Belgium of pushing a “neo-colonial agenda” and deliberately siding against Rwanda in regional matters.
“Belgium has taken sides in a regional conflict and continues to systematically mobilize against Rwanda in different forums, using lies and manipulation to secure an unjustified hostile opinion of Rwanda,” the statement read.
Belgian Response and Diplomatic Fallout
Belgian Foreign Minister Maxime Prevot criticized Rwanda’s actions, stating on social media. “This is disproportionate and shows that when we disagree with Rwanda, they prefer not to engage in dialogue.” In response, Prevot announced that Rwandan diplomats in Belgium would be declared “persona non grata,” potentially leading to their expulsion.
Escalation of Conflict in Eastern DRC
The conflict in eastern DRC has intensified in recent months, with Congolese authorities reporting over 7,000 deaths since early 2025. More than 850,000 people have been displaced due to ongoing clashes between M23 rebels and DR Congo’s armed forces.
The rebel group has gained significant ground, taking control of Goma and Bukavu within the past two months. On Monday, the European Union imposed sanctions on three top Rwandan military commanders and the head of Rwanda’s state mining agency, accusing them of benefiting from the DRC conflict and illegally exploiting the region’s mineral resources.
International Reactions and Peace Talks
The diplomatic fallout comes as Britain and Germany have already cut portions of their aid to Rwanda in protest against its alleged involvement in the conflict. Additionally, the UN Security Council has demanded that M23 rebels halt hostilities and that Rwanda withdraw any troops from the DRC.
Notably, Rwanda’s decision to cut ties with Belgium was announced just a day before planned peace talks between the Congolese government and M23 rebels. However, the rebel group later pulled out of the negotiations, accusing unspecified international institutions of undermining peace efforts.
President Kagame’s Defiant Stance
Rwandan President Paul Kagame has maintained a strong stance against Belgium’s criticisms. In a speech on Sunday, he openly challenged the European nation’s authority, stating, “Who are you by the way? Who put you in charge of us? Rwandans believe in God, but did God put these people in charge of Rwanda?”
With diplomatic tensions at an all-time high and the conflict in eastern DRC escalating, the coming weeks may prove critical in shaping regional stability and international relations in Central Africa.
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