The diplomatic relationship between Rwanda and Belgium has reached a breaking point, with Rwanda announcing the immediate severance of ties and ordering all Belgian diplomats to leave the country within 48 hours. The move, which came on Monday, March 18, 2025, has escalated tensions between the two nations, primarily over Belgium’s stance on Rwanda’s role in the ongoing conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
Rwanda’s Accusations Against Belgium
In an official statement, the Rwandan Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation accused Belgium of “consistently undermining” Rwanda’s position in the DRC conflict.
“The Government of Rwanda today notified the Government of Belgium of its decision to sever diplomatic relations, effective immediately,” the statement read.
Rwanda’s decision follows growing international scrutiny over its alleged involvement in the conflict, particularly its support for the M23 armed group that has been actively fighting against the Congolese government in the mineral-rich eastern DRC.
Rwandan President Paul Kagame specifically accused Belgium of lobbying for international sanctions against Rwanda due to its suspected backing of M23 rebels.
Belgium’s Response: Rwandan Diplomats No Longer Welcome
Belgium responded swiftly to Rwanda’s move, calling it “disproportionate” and declaring that Rwandan diplomats in Brussels would no longer be welcome.
“Belgium regrets the decision of Rwanda to cut off diplomatic relations with Belgium and to declare Belgium’s diplomats persona non grata,” Belgian Foreign Minister Maxime Prevot said in a post on X (formerly Twitter).
“This is disproportionate and shows that when we disagree with Rwanda, they prefer not to engage in dialogue.”
Belgium has been among the most vocal European countries calling for stronger international action against Rwanda, particularly over allegations that Rwandan troops are actively operating in the DRC.
The Conflict in the DRC: A Growing Regional Crisis
At the heart of this diplomatic fallout is the ongoing war in eastern DRC, where the M23 rebel group has launched a major offensive. The UN and Western intelligence agencies have accused Rwanda of arming, financing, and directing the group, despite repeated denials from Kigali.
What is M23?
M23, a predominantly Tutsi-led armed group, has been engaged in conflict with the Congolese army (FARDC), capturing key cities in eastern DRC. The group claims to be fighting against corruption and ethnic persecution in DRC but has been accused of war crimes and human rights abuses.
A recent UN report estimates that Rwanda has approximately 4,000 troops in eastern Congo, directly supporting M23 operations. Rwanda, however, claims that its military presence is limited to protecting its borders from ethnic Hutu armed groups operating within DRC.
Humanitarian Toll: Thousands Dead, Millions Displaced
The Congolese government estimates that at least 7,000 people have been killed in the latest fighting, while millions have been displaced. Kinshasa has repeatedly called for international military intervention to counter the M23 offensive.
This crisis has drawn attention from global powers, with the United States, European Union, and African Union urging Rwanda to de-escalate its involvement in eastern Congo. Belgium, a former colonial power in both Rwanda and the DRC, has been particularly active in advocating for sanctions against Rwanda.
Diplomatic Fallout and the Path Forward
Monday’s diplomatic rupture comes at a critical time, as DRC and M23 rebels prepare for peace talks scheduled to take place in Angola on Tuesday, March 19, 2025. The negotiations are seen as a last-ditch effort to prevent further escalation of the conflict.
However, with Rwanda and Belgium cutting ties, tensions in the region could deepen, potentially jeopardizing diplomatic efforts to end the war.
What Happens Next?
- Belgian diplomats have 48 hours to leave Rwanda, and Rwandan diplomats in Brussels will also be expelled.
- The international community is expected to respond, with potential mediation efforts to ease tensions between Kigali and Brussels.
- The outcome of the Angola peace talks could determine whether the M23 offensive continues or a ceasefire is reached.
For now, Rwanda’s decision to cut off diplomatic ties with Belgium marks a significant shift in regional dynamics, highlighting the deepening divide between Rwanda and its Western allies over the conflict in eastern DRC.
