UK imposes sanctions on Rwanda over its alleged involvement in DRC conflict

The UK government has imposed a series of sanctions on Rwanda in response to Kigali’s alleged support of the M23 rebel group in the ongoing conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
The M23 militia’s offensive, backed by Rwandan forces, has escalated violence in the region, resulting in over 7,000 deaths and displacing millions since January. In a statement, the UK government announced that it would freeze certain forms of bilateral aid to Rwanda, with exceptions for humanitarian support aimed at the most vulnerable. Additionally, the UK will limit trade promotions, suspend defense cooperation, and halt high-level attendance at Rwandan government events. The UK has called for an immediate ceasefire, the withdrawal of Rwandan troops from Congolese territory, and a renewed focus on political solutions to the conflict.
The UK’s actions follow intense diplomatic engagements between foreign secretary David Cameron and leaders from both Rwanda and DRC. Rwanda has repeatedly denied supporting M23 rebels, asserting that its military operations are necessary for self-defense against hostile forces in neighboring Congo. However, the UK and the European Union have slammed Rwanda, arguing that its actions have exacerbated instability in the region. Rwanda’s foreign ministry has expressed regret over the sanctions, criticizing the UK’s decision as counterproductive and unfair. “It is unreasonable to expect Rwanda to compromise its national security and the safety of Rwandans,” it said in a statement.