The UK government announced on Tuesday that it would suspend certain bilateral aid to Rwanda and impose additional diplomatic measures in response to Rwanda’s involvement in the ongoing conflict in neighboring Congo.
Rwanda faces mounting international scrutiny over allegations that it supports the M23 rebel group, which has seized significant territory in eastern Congo since January, including the cities of Goma and Bukavu, and key mineral resources.
While Kigali denies backing the group, it maintains that its military actions are in self-defense against hostile forces operating from Congo.
In a statement, the British government emphasized that it would suspend aid and implement diplomatic sanctions until substantial progress is made in halting hostilities and withdrawing all Rwandan military forces from Congolese soil.
The measures will include reducing high-level engagement with Rwandan government events, limiting trade promotion efforts, and halting direct financial aid to Rwanda, except for programs aimed at supporting the country’s most vulnerable populations.
Britain also pledged to collaborate with international partners on potential new sanctions, halt future defense training support, and review export licenses for Rwanda’s military.
A UK government spokesperson remarked, “While Rwanda has legitimate security concerns, resolving them through military means is unacceptable. A political solution is the only viable path to peace.” They also urged the Democratic Republic of the Congo to engage in inclusive dialogue with the M23, while promising to keep the situation under close review.
