Rwanda Labels Canada’s Sanctions “Shameful” Amid DRC Conflict

Rwanda’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has dismissed Canada’s stance on the conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) as “shameful”, accusing Ottawa of selective outrage and ignoring human rights abuses committed by the DRC government.

The diplomatic spat began when Canadian ministers Mélanie Joly, Ahmed Hussen, and Mary Ng released a joint statement condemning Rwanda’s alleged support for the M23 rebel group in eastern Congo.

The statement called for Rwanda to cease backing armed groups and announced diplomatic and economic restrictions, including suspending export permits for controlled goods and technologies.

Rwanda swiftly rejected Canada’s accusations, calling them “defamatory” and politically motivated. Kigali argued that Canada was unfairly blaming Rwanda while turning a blind eye to atrocities committed by Congolese forces and allied militias.

“The position of Canada on the conflict in eastern DRC is shameful,” Rwanda’s foreign ministry said in a statement. “Canada cannot claim to welcome the efforts of regional actors in the peace process when it places the blame for all kinds of violations on Rwanda.”

The diplomatic fallout has significant implications, as Rwanda remains defiant and insists on security guarantees, which the DRC and the international community have been unwilling or unable to provide.

The situation is further complicated by Rwanda’s growing diplomatic isolation, with Western powers tightening pressure on President Paul Kagame’s administration over its alleged interference in the DRC.

Rwanda has long maintained that it is not supporting the M23 rebels, but rather seeking to protect its borders and citizens from militant groups operating in the region.

The DRC, however, has accused Rwanda of backing the rebels, who have taken control of several towns in eastern Congo.

The conflict has sparked international concern, with the United Nations and other organizations warning of a humanitarian crisis in the region.

Canada’s sanctions against Rwanda are the latest in a series of diplomatic moves aimed at pressuring Kigali to withdraw its support for the M23 rebels.

However, Rwanda’s foreign ministry has made it clear that it will not be swayed by external pressure, and will continue to prioritize its national security interests.

The standoff between Rwanda and Canada has significant implications for regional stability and the ongoing peace process in the DRC.

As the situation continues to unfold, diplomats and analysts will be watching closely to see how the dispute is resolved, and what impact it may have on the wider region.