Rwanda cuts diplomatic ties with Belgium and orders all Belgian diplomats to leave within 48 hours over DRC conflict

Rwanda has severed all diplomatic ties with Belgium, following escalating tensions between the two countries over the ongoing conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The Rwandan foreign ministry issued a statement on Monday, ordering all Belgian diplomats to leave Rwanda within 48 hours. The ministry cited the need to “safeguard” Rwanda’s national interests, accusing Belgium of taking sides in the regional conflict and systematically mobilizing against Rwanda in various international forums.

Belgium’s Foreign Minister Maxime Prévot responded by calling Rwanda’s decision “disproportionate,” stating that Belgium would reciprocate by ending all governmental cooperation agreements with Rwanda. He further indicated that Rwandan diplomats would no longer be welcome in Belgium.

The tensions between the two nations stem from Rwanda’s alleged support of the M23 rebels in the eastern DRC, who have recently captured Goma and Bukavu, causing widespread death and displacement. The DRC government and Belgium have criticized Rwanda for backing the rebels, accusing Rwanda of seeking to control land in the resource-rich region. The M23 fighters claim to be defending the rights of ethnic Tutsis in the region.

In response to the conflict, Rwanda suspended its 2024-2029 bilateral aid program with Belgium last month, accusing Belgium of undermining its access to development finance. Belgium, in turn, has continued to advocate for a peaceful resolution to the DRC conflict.

The diplomatic rupture between Rwanda and Belgium coincided with the European Union’s announcement of sanctions against nine individuals, including five Rwandans, linked to the violence in the DRC. Meanwhile, the DRC has confirmed its participation in peace talks with the M23 rebels, scheduled to take place in Angola.