A recent report by the United Nations expert group on the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has highlighted a worsening humanitarian crisis in the eastern part of the country, with 2.3 million displaced individuals in Kivu and a total of 7 million nationwide. This report provides evidence of Rwandan involvement in the ongoing conflict in the region, prompting Belgium to call for the withdrawal of Rwandan troops from the DRC.
In an official statement, the Belgian Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasized that the UN report “clearly establishes” the direct involvement of the Rwandan armed forces in the conflict. The report details how Rwandan Defense Forces have intensified their joint operations with M23 rebels, significantly impacting the conflict dynamics. Equipped with modern military equipment, these forces have effectively grounded the DRC’s aerial capabilities.
Previously, Belgium had repeatedly urged Rwanda to cease its support for the rebels and to withdraw from the conflict. The latest statement marks a more assertive stance, despite the risk of further straining Belgium’s already tenuous relations with Kigali. Notably, this declaration aligns closely with a statement from the U.S. Department of State.
While the tone towards Rwanda is uncompromising, Belgium also calls on the DRC to halt its military cooperation with illegal armed groups, including the FDLR (Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda) rebels.
This diplomatic move underscores Belgium’s commitment to addressing the complex and multifaceted crisis in the DRC, urging both Rwanda and the DRC to take responsible actions to alleviate the humanitarian situation and restore stability in the region.