Rwanda President

Rwanda has officially severed diplomatic relations with Belgium, giving Belgian diplomats 48 hours to leave the country. The decision follows Belgium’s recent move to freeze aid and suspend trade agreements over Rwanda’s alleged involvement in the conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

In a statement, Rwanda’s foreign affairs ministry accused Belgium of persistent interference in its affairs, particularly regarding the ongoing crisis in the eastern DRC. The ministry also condemned Belgium’s historical role in the region, calling it a continuation of “neo-colonial” tactics.

Speaking at a press conference in Kigali on Sunday, President Paul Kagame defended Rwanda’s actions and vowed to resist foreign influence. He criticised Belgium’s colonial legacy, accusing it of undermining Rwanda and interfering in its sovereignty.

The diplomatic fallout comes amid growing international pressure on Rwanda over allegations that it supports the M23 rebel group, which controls parts of eastern DRC. While Kigali has repeatedly denied backing the rebels, reports from the United Nations and Western nations suggest otherwise.

This latest move marks a significant escalation in tensions between Rwanda and its Western allies, further complicating the already volatile situation in the Great Lakes region. {Africanews}