Rwanda has severed diplomatic ties with Belgium, accusing its former colonial ruler of undermining its sovereignty and meddling in regional conflicts. The decision follows Belgium’s push for European sanctions against Rwanda, citing its alleged support for the M23 rebel group involved in the ongoing war in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
In a strongly-worded statement, Kigali accused Belgium of attempting to sustain its neo-colonial delusions, claiming Brussels has taken sides in the regional crisis and is spreading false narratives to destabilize Rwanda. The Rwandan government has ordered Belgian diplomats to leave within 48 hours.
Tensions Over the M23 Conflict
The M23 rebel group has been at the center of conflict in eastern DR Congo, where more than 7,000 people have been killed since January 2025, according to Congolese authorities. The UN and US have accused Rwanda of backing the rebels, but Kigali denies any involvement.
Belgium has been leading European calls for sanctions, with the EU imposing asset freezes on three senior Rwandan military commanders and the head of Rwanda’s state mining agency, alleging exploitation of DRC’s mineral resources.
Belgium Calls the Move ‘Disproportionate’
Belgian Foreign Minister Maxime Prevot criticized Rwanda’s move, calling it “disproportionate” and saying it shows that Rwanda “prefers to avoid dialogue” when confronted. In response, Belgium has declared Rwandan diplomats in Brussels persona non grata, a move that could lead to their expulsion.
A History of Strained Relations
Rwanda’s President Paul Kagame, known for his assertive foreign policy, has publicly dismissed Belgium’s criticisms. In a recent speech, he questioned Brussels’ authority over Rwanda, saying:
“Who are you, by the way? Who put you in charge of us?”
The diplomatic fallout comes ahead of scheduled peace talks between DR Congo and the M23 rebels, which have now been thrown into uncertainty after the rebels announced they would withdraw from negotiations, citing interference by unnamed international bodies.
International Reactions and Aid Cuts
The diplomatic spat follows moves by Britain and Germany to cut portions of their aid to Rwanda, citing its alleged involvement in the conflict. Meanwhile, the UN Security Council has called on Rwanda to withdraw any troops from DR Congo and for the M23 to end hostilities.
As regional tensions escalate, the severing of ties between Rwanda and Belgium marks a significant shift in diplomatic relations, further complicating efforts to stabilize eastern DR Congo.
