Rwanda Calls UK Sanctions 'Regrettable' Over Alleged Support for Congo Rebels

Rwanda Describes UK Sanctions as "Regrettable" Over Involvement in Neighboring Conflict

Rwanda has labeled the sanctions imposed by the United Kingdom as "regrettable," following accusations that it supports the M23 rebels fighting in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The UK's Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office (FCDO) listed several punitive measures against Rwanda, including the suspension of direct financial support to the Rwandan government, halting participation in high-level government events, and restricting defense cooperation. These measures exclude aid intended for the poorest Rwandans.

In a statement, Rwanda's Ministry of Foreign Affairs argued that these actions would not contribute to resolving the conflict in eastern DRC or help bring about a lasting political solution. "The sanctions announced by the UK government in response to the conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo are deeply regrettable. Ignoring Rwanda's efforts to protect its national security and the safety of its citizens is unreasonable," the statement said.

The sanctions come days after the US Treasury Department's Office of Foreign Assets Control announced economic restrictions on James Kabarebe, Rwanda's Minister of Regional Integration. The M23 rebel group has intensified its control over eastern Congo since December, capturing key cities such as Goma and Bukavu.

The ongoing conflict in eastern Congo has claimed the lives of over 7,000 people this year, according to DRC Prime Minister Judith Suminwa Tuluka, who addressed the United Nations Human Rights Council on Monday.