UK Sanctions Rwanda Over Support for M23 Rebels in DR Congo

The United Kingdom has imposed sanctions on Rwanda over its involvement in the ongoing crisis in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

A UK government spokesperson stated that during meetings with President Félix Tshisekedi and President Paul Kagame on February 21 and 22, the Foreign Secretary stressed the urgent need for an immediate cessation of hostilities.

The UK strongly condemned the recent offensives by the M23 rebel group and the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF), calling them a blatant violation of DRC’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, as well as a breach of the UN Charter.

“The UK is deeply concerned about the situation in eastern DRC, where nearly a million people have been displaced, and hundreds of thousands require urgent humanitarian assistance,” read a statement from the UK government.

The statement further emphasized that all parties must take responsibility for protecting the people of eastern DRC, who have endured immense suffering due to the conflict.

“The Foreign Secretary has made it clear that the international community will respond firmly to the escalating violence.”

In response to the crisis, the UK called for an immediate cessation of hostilities, unhindered humanitarian access and adherence to international humanitarian law, meaningful engagement with African-led peace initiatives and the complete withdrawal of Rwanda Defence Forces from Congolese territory.

Until significant progress is made, the UK announced the following measures against Rwanda: ceasing high-level participation in events hosted by the Rwandan government, limiting trade promotion activities with Rwanda, suspending direct bilateral financial aid, except for support directed at the poorest and most vulnerable, coordinating with partners on potential new sanctions, halting future defence training assistance to Rwanda and reviewing export licences related to the Rwanda Defence Force.

The UK acknowledged Rwanda’s security concerns but insisted that military intervention is not a viable solution.

“While Rwanda may have security concerns, resolving them militarily is unacceptable. There can only be a political solution to this conflict. We also encourage the DRC to engage with M23 as part of an inclusive dialogue,” the statement concluded.

The UK pledged to keep its policy under review as the situation evolves.