President Paul Kagame has stated that sanctions imposed on Rwanda over the conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) add to existing problems without addressing the root causes of the crisis.
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Failure of Selective International Measures
Kagame said attempts to explain the crisis mainly through Rwanda’s involvement overlook other key actors, including the Congolese government, neighbouring countries, and the international community.
He questioned the logic of sanctioning Rwanda and the AFC/M23 coalition while failing to address the role of the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR) and the persecution of Congolese Tutsi communities in eastern DR Congo, which Rwanda maintains are fundamental drivers of the conflict.
Criticism of UN Reporting Frameworks
Kagame also criticized the narratives presented by the UN Group of Experts on the DR Congo, saying they often frame the origins of the crisis too narrowly and fail to adequately consider its deeper historical context.
He explained that by focusing primarily on recent developments, international bodies discount longer-term regional security dynamics and first-hand evidence provided regarding the situation.
Unwavering Commitment to Self-Defense
He affirmed that Rwanda will continue taking all measures it considers necessary to protect itself against external threats, while simultaneously remaining committed to working with regional and international partners toward sustainable peace.
